97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

[dfritz]

I bought a used Challenger 1800 with twin 787s. They both ran great on the test drive. Now one will not start. Initially it was running very low in RPMs so we changed the fuel filter and the plugs. After which it would not even start. The engine cranks but it just does not kick over. I swapped the coils and no change, one engine strong, one non-starter. Trimmed the spark plug wires back and still nothing. Beginning to think the pickup is bad, but wanted a sanity check before I start to dig in. I did use a tester and there is a spark, seems weak, at the plug on the dead engine. Will perform a compression check tonight. Any ideas?

[dsolie]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

What type of fuel filter? Did you put it on the right way (yes, there is a wrong way).. Which way is the arrow pointing, to the fuel tank or the motor?

[dfritz]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

I ran a compression test and the good engine has 130+ while the bad has one cylinder at 90. Believe something has gone wrong internally. Has anyone used the premium replacement engines from SBT? Pretty straight forward? I am a mechanical engineer and not a day to day mechanic. Also, if I have the motor out, should I rebuild the carbs? Will check the filter tomorrow.

[dfritz]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

Filter arrow pointed toward carbs. Type unknown, from previous owner. Description is a clear plastic housing tapered fatter toward card with a yellowish element as the actual filter. Filter is as wet on bad engine as is on good engine. Almost convinced something is dead on one cylinder. It cranks very little right now and only for a short burst. Do not want to burn up starter. Rave valve on bad cylinder is normal and was cleaned yesterday.

[dfritz]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

Just ran a compression leakage check. Bad engine, air gets to oil in crank, it can be heard bubbling. Good engine, no bubbling. Will start teardown tomorrow. Any bets on full engine or top end rebuild.

[dsolie]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

bubbling?? huh?? There is no oil in crank, this isn't a 4-stroke... The only oil is in the tank and rotary bath..

[dfritz]

Re: 97 Challenger 1800 Starting issue

pulled head cover today. Cylinder with 90 pressure is toast. Will be ordering complete engine on Monday.