2.3L ('83-'97) Crank No Start 95 2.3L manual

[archdukeofrandom88]

At my wits end. Got a crank no start on my 95 2.3l manual. Go spark and fuel pressure. Changed the crank position sensor and clutch switch and cleaned every connector I could get to. Cut out one night while driving and hasn't cranked since.

 

[RonD]

Welcome to the forum

Gas engines need 3 things to fire, since the first gas engine in 1890's
Computers changed nothing
Compression above 100psi
Fuel mixed with air
Spark at the right time

50/50 test, used since 1890's, is still the best way to start diagnosing with a crank but no start

Spray fuel into the intake, i.e. gasoline, ether(quick start), carb or brake cleaner, ect...
Try to start
If it starts, runs and dies you have a fuel delivery problem
If it doesn't start/fire then spark problem(or compression)
50/50, no guessing

2.3l SOHC Lima engine is unique in that it uses a timing belt that can break or slip
So unlike other engines its always good to test compression on these if there was a "no fire" on 50/50 test
150+psi is expected

As for Crank sensors, next time just Watch the CEL(check engine light)
CEL comes on with key on, that means Computer has booted up OK, no CEL = no spark and no fuel
CEL should go OFF when starter motor starts to spin the engine, that means computer has started spark and then fuel injectors because its getting a valid timing signal from Crank Sensor
If CEL stays on while cranking then no spark and no fuel

 

[scotts90ranger]

If it stopped while driving I would HIGHLY suspect timing belt, they're non interference so not a big deal. Pull the rubber plug on the timing cover, you should see the belt through there and it should be tight...