car doesnt start

[heymanz]

i have a 95 88 with a 3800 engine i was driving n the engine stalled it cranks but wont start i think the timing chain many have jumped is there a easy way to check this without tearing it apart and if the chain did jump would the valves gotten bent thanks for any help you may offer

[maxwedge]

If the chain went bad you it would almost be certain the valves are bent, you could do a compression test. But does it have spark and fuel pressure?

[Tech II]

Why are you ASSUMING the chain jumped? Is it because it makes a different sound while cranking?

I can remember the old "C" motors having this problem because they used a composite cam gear that would strip and jump the timing.....more often than not it would bend the push rods rather than the valves.....

The "L" motor had a steel cam and this didn't happen.....I can't even remember hearing about a chain that jumped due to sprocket, tensioner or chain failure.....not that it couldn't happen......but if the engine had regular oil changes, it shouldn't happen......

I'd check compression before condemning a chain....if compression is ok, and if there is no spark or injector pulse, I'd be leaning towards a crank sensor or ICM.....if there is spark and pulse, check fuel pressure.....

If pressure is ok, disconnect the MAF and see if it will start.....

Have you checked for codes?