Editing Forums/Z31P/z31-repairs-forums engine-mechanical/Cranks but wont start…

{{ForumImport
|op_user=Hikari86
|op_date=2019-01-23 17:59:24
|post_count=5
|archive_url=/Z31performance_archive/forum/z31-repairs-forums/engine-mechanical/542179-cranks-but-wont-start.html
}}

'''Hikari86:''' <small>(2019-01-23 17:59:24)</small>

I have a 1986 300zx NA. After i replaced the fuel filter it ran for a bit but i still needed a new battery. I got it delivered to my house and it hasn't run since. spark plugs and distributer have been replaced. I tried with some starting fluid but it wont run at all. All fuses and relays are fine. I'm pretty much stuck and need help

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'''mwolvinm:''' <small>(2019-01-23 18:05:48)</small>

Is it getting spark and fuel? Start with the basic troubleshooting steps. Otherwise, we can guess wrong all day long.

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'''wbnethery3:''' <small>(2019-01-23 18:11:43)</small>

Welcome to the forum… it would definitely help us help you if you could give us more details. What you're describing is just the final symptom of the problem, and we need a lot more info if we're going to point you in the right direction. How much automotive repair skill do you have? Are you good at diagnostics or just a parts replacer? Google and YouTube are great if you know how to search, but this is the best place to get answers that are specific to the Z31.

For the car to run, it needs three things: fuel, fire and air. You mentioned the fuel filter… you also used starting fluid. I'd say fuel isn't likely your problem unless you've got a tank of rotten gas, but that's guessing from a keyboard. You mentioned the plugs and dizzy, which is your fire (i.e. spark). Did you replace the plug wires as well as the plugs? A single wire being bad won't keep it from running unless it's the coil wire and you didn't get it installed properly or it's completely bad. There are other elements of the ignition system that can cause you to not run… the ECU stores trouble codes, have you checked them? Do you have a shop manual? As far as air goes, the MAF can cause issues but shouldn't keep the engine from running.

That's what I can offer off the cuff… come back with more details -

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'''mwolvinm:''' <small>(2019-01-24 18:04:22)</small>

Code readers are great for OBD2 and OBD3… this is OBD1 and you don't need a reader. If you suspect it's fuel, disconnect the fuel line after the filter and try cranking it with the hose pointed into a container. It should expel gas. Also, pull a spark plug or 6 and take a look at those. Are they covered in soot, oil, gas, ect? The plugs can tell you a lot as to why the engine won't start. or at least point you in the correct direction. When you are cranking it, does it just turn over, or is it sputtering and trying to start?

If you haven't done so yet, download the FSM… It's free on a few sites and immensely valuable.

In my experience, it's rarely air. Usually you don't have fuel or spark for some reason.

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'''albionwanderer86:''' <small>(2019-01-30 01:18:17)</small>

Here are some pictures of aforementioned "spark plug changer tube" tool thing whatchacallit. It makes doing tune-ups a breeze, trust me.

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factory tool kit / miscellaneous junk location in back hatch near driver's side compartment under carpet

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cylinder tube tool in question

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