1987 2.3L Ranger, wont fire

[rirvan79]

I have a 87 2.3L Ranger that I am determined to get running again. Withing in 6 months of owning this truck I replaced the head gasket, timing belt, and the camshaft (camshaft twice, didnt replace the lifters and wore out the second shaft). After replacing the camshaft for the second time, the main wiring harness shorted out and melted everything from the ignition coil to the computer. After a year of looking, I found a used wiring harness for it and replaced the coil and computer. Now I cant get the truck to fire. I also pulled the distributor (forgot to mark its position). I think put it back at TDC and put the distributor back in correctly, but could be wrong. I could use any suggestions on why this truck isnt firing or what I could do to get it running. I refuse to give up on it. Sorrry for the the long story, but I wanted to give plenty of background.

 

[Viper Command]

put the crank at TDC. make sure you have the firing order correct. check the rotor at TDC to see if it is pointing at cylinder #1. also check all your grounds.

 

[Mark_88]

If you haven't already done so, check to make sure you are getting spark first. If so... mark the distributor where #1 wire connects and then remove the cap...if the rotor is not lined up just remove the distributor and reseat it so it lines up...

Only takes one tooth out to not fire...just found that out myself...but only takes a few minutes to reseat the distributor...

Oh...btw...did you make sure you were on the intake when you set it at TDC?

Remove plug number one and crank the engine by hand...you should feel outward pressure on your thumb when the piston is coming up to TDC...then align the cam and then the distributor...works everytime...

 

[pedal2themetal45]

Are you sure your getting fuel and or spark to the plugs..
Hook up a timming light and crank the motor over and see if it flashes.
tim

 

[rirvan79]

Thanks for the all of the advice. Pretty busy right now but I will give yalls ideas a try and let you know how it works out.