Stored Astro wont start.

[ypelchat]

Hi guys;

I've got a problem. For the winter season, I decided to put my 2005 Astro in storage on october 7th 2006. I was not started for about 2.5 month. During the holidays I went to the place to start the van. The engine cranks very well, but would not run. It sputters slightly, when i release the starter. It's feels like there's no spark on the spark plug or no gas in the tank. But the gas tank is half full. Any idea on what the problem could be? Could this be a problem with bad or corrupt gas?

Yves.

[Blue Bowtie]

Is the fuel pump running when the ignition is first turned on?

Did you add fuel stabilizer to the tank before storage?

Any "Security" messages in the display?

[ypelchat]

Originally Posted by Blue Bowtie

Is the fuel pump running when the ignition is first turned on?

Did you add fuel stabilizer to the tank before storage?

Any "Security" messages in the display?

Yes, the fuel pump runs for about two seconds when the ignition is turned on.

No i did not add fuel stabilizer to the tank.

Yes, the security message appears while i'm trying to start the engine, but only appears 1 or 2 seconds after the key is turned to the start position, but remains on for as long as i'm trying to start the engine.

Yves.

[Blue Bowtie]

Originally Posted by ypelchat

Yes, the security message appears while i'm trying to start the engine, but only appears 1 or 2 seconds after the key is turned to the start position, but remains on for as long as i'm trying to start the engine.

I'm going to take a risk and presume that you meant the Security message appears for a few seconds after the key is in the RUN position, and turns on and remains on during cranking. That would be normal.

Unfortunately, the next step would be to verify that there is spark. I used the term "unfortunately" since that would be relatively easy on anything but an Astro. You may be able to access a spark plug wire or two from under the hood or under the vehicle, but the best way would be to remove the "dog house" and access the distributor directly. This takes some time, but may be worthwhile if you also have to verify fuel pressure.

[drew300]

I'd suggest trying some "starting fluid", just spray some in the tube from the air cleaner.
The fuel pump only runs 2 seconds or so, and maybe you don't have the pressure yet.
The starting fluid would also check for spark.

[MT-2500]

As suggested starting fluid will help get it started if a fuel pressure problem.
But go easy and be careful with that stuff.
To much and you can blow engine or valve covers off.
A better and safer starting fluid is carb cleaner.
Also flip the key on a couple of times to help build up full fuel pressure.
Good Luck MT

[drew300]

Yes, you're right. I did use throttle body cleaner that I had left over.
And WD-40 also works as a starting fluid.