LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Dodge and Ram >> 1989 >> Caravan Base, 2.5 K, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> Ignition System >> Ignition Systems - Optical >> Testing >> Failure To Start Test
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Failure To Start Test

NOTE: Perform IGNITION SYSTEM SPARK TEST  first. Failure to do so may result in lost diagnostic time or incorrect test results.
  1. Ensure that battery voltage of 12.4 volts or more is available for the cranking and starting systems. Crank engine for 5 seconds while observing voltage at the coil positive terminal.
  2. If voltage does not remain at or near battery voltage for the entire 5 seconds, refer to appropriate article in COMPUTERIZED ENGINE CONTROLS section. If voltage remains at or near battery voltage for the entire 5 seconds, remove the 14-pin connector (key off) from the SMEC and inspect for damaged or spread terminals.
  3. If voltage remains close to battery voltage during the entire 5 seconds, turn ignition off. Remove 60-pin connector from SMEC. Check 60-pin connector for spread or loose terminals. Remove lead from positive terminal of ignition coil. Install a jumper wire between battery positive terminal and positive terminal of coil.
  4. Using a jumper wire with a .33 microfarad capacitor, momentarily ground terminal No. 19 of 60-pin connector. See Fig 1. A spark should be generated when ground is removed.
  5. If a spark is generated, replace SMEC. If not, use special jumper wire to ground coil negative terminal. If no spark is produced, repair open in wiring harness. If no open in wiring harness, replace ignition coil.
Fig 1: Special Jumper Wire & 14-Pin Connector Identification
G113227Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.