1988 2.3 wont start but shows the signs of wanting to.

[Blackdog455]

It gets air, spark, compression but wo,t turnover. I was told that the ignition control modual could be dead. Does anyone have a picture of one where it is located in the engine bay?

 

[RonD]

If you have an '88 2.3l then it will have a distributor and TFI ignition system.
TFI module is on the side of the distributor

Good read on how to test that system here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TFI_Diagnostic.shtml

'89 2.3l had no distributor, it had dual coil packs(8 spark plugs) and an ICM(ignition control module) located on the front of the intake manifold, black with wires coming out
Many parts stores can test this ICM.


Have you tried starting fluid?
That is a 50/50 problem finder
If engine starts and dies you have a fuel problem.
If engine does not fire at all then it is a spark problem.

 

[Blackdog455]

So, there's no icm then? We tried starter fluid...nothing. Checked spark plugs and they all are getting spark. Would it need a new distributor?

 

[RonD]

If spark plugs are getting spark and you sprayed in starting fluid(ether) then engine should fire, maybe not start but at least back fire, unless there is no compression.

Is the Cam moving?
Can you see the timing belt moving behind belt cover?

Or is the distributor rotor moving?
It should be if you get spark at all 4 plugs

And if you have a timing light check that #1 spark plug is sparking at TDC mark on Crank shaft