96 Dodge Caravan Wont start PLEASE HELP!!

[hundahunta]

you probably need to do a compression test. !

[RIP]

If you consider lack of power and sluggishness then yes, a compression check might reveal something. However, this started with stalling and no start and now it's running. Can't rule anything out at this point but, it wouldn't be high on my list.

Time to take it to a mechanic. I would have them check for a vacuum leak first since that's potentially the cheapest fix. Yes it's going to cost some bucks but, chances are it's your cheapest route, all things considered. You could always tell them to troubleshoot it only and you could change parts.

If you dig your heals in and I hope you don't, here's things to look into:

vacuum leak at the intake gasket (should read 17 inches at idle on a gauge)
gummed up throttle plate (clean it with spray throttle body cleaner)
idle air control valve
EGR system
Check the fuel pressure (40 psi at idle I THINK???)
Fuel pump (check pressure first)
Fuel pressure regulator
Fuel filter
Fuel injectors (listen with a stethoscope for noraml clicking)
Check spark plug/wire condition (remove the front three plugs - they could tell you a lot)
Compression check

Cheers!

OBTW - I learned a flashing Service Engine light all the time can indicate a misfire.

[Rawtorque]

Follow that list. An EGR valve stuck open can cause misfire & lack of power.

[mudflap]

Originally Posted by junya808

Hey rip
Ok brought the van down to checker auto got the thing scanned came up with coil c misfirng and map sensor bd. So I changed the 2. Van seems to be running a little better, but really sluggish. Idling real low..When I drove up a hill punch the gas a little rpms up to 4000, but car just aint got the power. Seems to be sputtering when I take off from a complete stop. Tried looking for a vaccum leak but maybe I'm not looking good enough..I also didi the code thing and got 12,43. Now I;m really frustrated with this thing...Please help thanks!!!!

I've been following this due to issues with my own '97, though not this bad. As you know, the 12 is just telling you the battery was disconnected recently. The 43 is the coil thing. Do try going through the list RIP posted, though.