'97 XP starting issues > cranking turning over

[tweakmeister]

I have a '97 XP with the following issues:

-When starting with the plug wires grounded (ie compression test), it turns over beautifully
-When I install the plug wires + plugs (ie normal operation) it will not start (has symptoms of a low battery in that it is slow in trying to turnover). The beep from the key being plugged in is not normal (dull sounding).

So far in my diagnosis I've covered all the basics:

-Good compression
-Orange'ish spark from both plugs
-Good connections everywhere
-Fuel system appears fine, full gas tank, no kinked lines

Is this just a battery issue? I'm running out today to get a new charger (battery fluid is full). I melted my multimeter otherwise I'd test it with that.

[tweakmeister]

Re: '97 XP starting issues > cranking turning over

Alrighty, after giving you guys a quick call it looks like a grounding issue. I had checked the grounds but let me remove them and give them a good cleaning.

You guys rock! :D

[Bill O'Neal2]

Re: '97 XP starting issues > cranking turning over

If your battery is over 6 months old and has not been maintained correctly, buy a battery too.

[tweakmeister]

Re: '97 XP starting issues > cranking turning over

yeah I'm hoping it's just a battery/grounding issue

if not, then what should I check next?

[tweakmeister]

Re: '97 XP starting issues > cranking turning over

alrighty, charged the battery again and.....

popped open the electrical box (with plug wires, etc.) and the bolt on the bottom of the assembly was completely rusted. I sanded/cleaned the contacts and coated everything with dielectric grease...

and the thing runs great now.