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Tracking down cause of dead cylinder.


cinealta_draiodoir
05-22-2007, 09:05 AM
1990 Delta 88 Royal 3800 series. Back left cylinder won't fire.

Here's what I've done...

Step one - Change Spark plugs and wires
Step two - Have coil pack tested
Step three - SeaFoam in tank, oil, and vacuum hose...

Whats step four? Nothing worked, the other cylinders are working better, but the back left one still won't fire. I'm taking off the injector today to see if it's got a clog or broke or something. If that doesnt work I'll be replacing the whole fuel rail all together to rule out wiring or clog problems...? (yes, I know to release the fuel pressure first)

maxwedge
05-22-2007, 11:25 AM
You are missing the basics, here do a compression test, if good suspect the injector or wiring to it.

cinealta_draiodoir
05-22-2007, 12:56 PM
Dumb question I guess, but can I do that kind of test in my driveway with basic tools?.....:banghead: If not then I'll take it to a garage latter today.

I'm taking off the fuel rail now, took out the 20a fuse on the passenger side, then tried to start it to make sure, then kinda hit a snag, those little metal things the keep the wiring from moving around that connect to the threads of the bolts for the rail...(why is it the small things...?) I took a break from it to come in and check this. Thanks tho...

cinealta_draiodoir
05-22-2007, 03:11 PM
Update

The injector was clogged...badly. I've got some 24 gauge wire I just poked into the hole and out came all kinds of black dust, then what seemed to be rusty water, indicating to my small brain that maybe some gunk inside is now loose, meaning that the clog is gone..? Anyway, after a few busted fingers I got everything back together. It was fun going up the mountain at 70mph.:smokin: It usually shakes pretty bad under load at about 50-55 mph, but not this time, and the SES light now stays on full time, not intermittent like it did before, still only getting code 44. O2 sensor and exhaust gasket payday then...

I had a leak...thank the gods I carry a fire extinguisher, and I thought the SeaFoam caused lots of smoke. I got lucky, no damage. The o-ring on the front right one got caught and fuel started to leak somewhere between after I checked for leaks and the 30 miles I drive to work...anyway, all fixed up now.

Thanks alot for all you guys help.

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