1996 Camry won't turn over.

[ihgrad]

Replaced the coil- same condition, though it seemed to turn quicker. Stepped on the gas- wouldn't get past choking and coughing and shaking. Any other ideas?

[RIP]

With the timing marks aligned the rotor is pointing at the number one plug wire in the distributor correct?

[jdmccright]

I'd find it hard to believe that all of this wouldn't throw a CEL code, so check the OBD for any stored codes. My feeling is to now look closer at the fuel...specifically the fuel line pressure. Too low will cause hard starting and could be a blocked fuel filter (cheap), failing pressure regulator (more $), or failing pump (ouch $$$). Fuel pressure should be 38-44 psi. I'm not sure if '96s have a test port for fuel pressure...they should since it's OBD-II, but I haven't seen one on my '92 unless someone can enlighten me.

You might pull the injectors out too to give them a good cleaning and check for proper operation.

[Brian R.]

Originally Posted by jdmccright

I'm not sure if '96s have a test port for fuel pressure...they should since it's OBD-II, but I haven't seen one on my '92 unless someone can enlighten me.

No test port. The fuel pressure is checked at the fuel filter output banjo. At this test point, the fuel pressure should be 44-50 psi at idle and engine off with fuel pump operating. When the engine is shut off, the fuel pressure should remain above 21 psi for 5 min.

[ihgrad]

Okay, let me add one more dimension to see if this points in one direction or another. When I pull the plugs, they are covered in a black sooty liquid. It is particularly bad in #1 and #2 pistons. These were brand new plugs and they look like they've got 60k miles on them already...