97 galant 2.4L 4cyl 98kmiles. Recently it won't start when the engine is hot. It cranks, but does not catch. When finally it catches after several tries, the rpm stays 200-300 for couple of seconds and then finally goes to 2000 and idles fine. However, it starts fine when the engine cools down. During no start, the fuel tank was hit with a hammer to check fuel pump, but does not help. Distributor has sparks during no start. Any ideas fellows?
I do not know if it is related or not, but raditor reserve tank was low on radiator fluid for some time. I just refilled the tank. Should I flush and refill the radiator fluid?
I'm old school. It would more likely be a computer problem, OR, possibly a worn timing chain. Sorry, I can't help more. If you check more messages in this NG, I believe that there is a recommended site to look at:
OK, you have the 4G64-16v engine. The hard start symptoms are indicative of either a) not enough fuel, or b) too much fuel. c) maybe low coolant
I'd start with a). This can be the fuel filter (should be on the firewall), or a partially blocked injector. Your garage can check the fuel pressure on the injector rail. You can do this yourself, by removing the two M6 bolts that hold the fuel supply hose to the injector rail. When you switch off, there is residual pressure. VERY CAREFULLY pull the supply hose off just enough to release pressure.
If you have not replaced your air filter, do so.
Take the injectors out and soak them in injector cleaner. Can't hurt, and may be the problem.
b) one or more injectors is leaking fuel. If you've also noted an increase in fuel consumption, this is most likley the problem. Take the injectors out and soak them in injector cleaner.
Check all the little vacuum hoses for cracks. Replace as necessary.
It might be the distributor is not generating spark when hot. Unlikley as the usual failure mode is no spark at all anytime.
c) low coolant can cause the coolant temp sensor (on the top rad hose to engine housing) to send wrong values to the ECU. Its OK when cold, but hot starts can be problematic. Make sure the coolant level is correct and air is purged from the system.
Disconnect your battery for 30 seconds to reset the ECU.
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