88 ea-82 F.I. won't start with starter (just cranks), but will start and run fine when we push it... we replaced the original motor with an 85 carb motor. switched carb to original F.I. and used original disty. Stumped.

Edited March 6, 201115 yr by wuffdan

Make sure the coil is powered up while cranking.

You most likely aren't getting power to the coil in the start position like Naru stated. Be sure to check the fuses for a problem there, especially fuse #5.

I find that the easiest test here is to disconnect the starter wire (the little one from the key, not the big one from the battery). Get the car running, then turn the key to the start position. IF the car dies, you've found your problem. Odds are, the coil isn't powered up while cranking.

I find that the easiest test here is to disconnect the starter wire (the little one from the key, not the big one from the battery). Get the car running, then turn the key to the start position. IF the car dies, you've found your problem. Odds are, the coil isn't powered up while cranking.

 

That's a pretty interesting technique Scoobywagon. I'm not sure if it is the easiest method but it is a interesting one and would definately show up the trouble if it was there, and most likely is in this case.

I say 'easiest' because all it requires is that you get the car running and disconnect one wire. The other way requires the use of a meter or swapping a bunch of fuses around. *shrug*

 

I suppose its easiest to walk someone through it over the internet.

... The other way requires the use of a meter or swapping a bunch of fuses around. *shrug* ...

Then there is the "other other way"...

Disconnect Solenoid wire at starter, have someone turn the ignition key to the "start" position, and use meter to see if coil gets power.

 

More than one way to skin a cat... though I have never found a reason to WANT to skin a cat.

Thanks guys. Lucky it wasn't a snake...

Then there is the "other other way"...

Disconnect Solenoid wire at starter, have someone turn the ignition key to the "start" position, and use meter to see if coil gets power.

 

Or if you are multimeter challenged,put a jumper wire between coil + and battery +.

See if it starts.

Crappy coroded battery terminals caused this problem on my XT turbo. When cranking the ecu/fuel pump wasnt seeing a high enough voltage to get everything going.