Questions and Answers

Buick Electra No Start, Backfires Q. This car had set for at least a year when we bought it. When you try to start it cranks good but it is bucking back on itself, just like the timing is advanced. At times it will also back fire through the intake. 1986 Buick Electra 380 3.8 liter Automatic transmission 100,000 miles ABS Brakes Fuel Injection P/S, A/C, Cruise Control Rack and pinion steering

We have not removed the old gas and replaced with new yet. Both, mechanics we know said this would not be causing the problem. Below is what we have done to the car so far.

• Cam and crank censor replaced
• Ignition module tested good
• Replaced fuel pump
• Injectors (all ohm the same but, what is the exact specifications?)
• Compression tested good
• Vacuum hoses replaced
• Three different scanners show no codes

Kelley

A. The 3.8 is known for throwing timing chains at this mileage. This sounds like it could be your problem. You could pull cam sensor out and try to watch the timing gear while turning the crank pulley. There should be no lag when you reverse the direction of turn. I would do this first.