1997 sohc turns over but won't start

[rileymutt]

Having trouble with the Explorer. It turns over but won't fire. I just had the computer replaced about a week ago for a p0443 code. It's ran great for a week after that but my wife went out this morning and nothing. Any ideas? It's a 1997 SOHC with 60000 miles. Thanks in advance.

 

[drdoom]

Is the fuel pump turning on?

 

[rileymutt]

Put the old computer in and fired right up. Do these things lose their programming? Only reason I bought the thing is because the dealer said it was the only fix for my check engine light. I'm a tad upset I just bought the thing and it's messed up

 

[rileymutt]

Is the fuel pump turning on?

Yes. The fuel pump was working. Just no spark.

 

[Flash]

Put the old computer in and fired right up. Do these things lose their programming? Only reason I bought the thing is because the dealer said it was the only fix for my check engine light. I'm a tad upset I just bought the thing and it's messed up

That's what I hate about farming work out to the dealers.

I had a no start condition with my SAAB, engine would spin but wouldn't start.
When the steal stopper is engaged the engine doesn't spin at all.

So what was going on? An indy shop tried a similar but not quite right ECU and it fired right up.
Then they tried putting the original ECU in and it ran perfectly.

It was just a bad connection.

You can reset the programming by disconnecting the battery for a while which is recommended when you've made any changes.

 

[Flash]

Btw, the p0443 code could be something as minor as a fuel cap not screwed on right.

 

[rileymutt]

Btw, the p0443 code could be something as minor as a fuel cap not screwed on right.

I replaced the purge valve, some other thing, had them check the wiring and they said computer for sure. Put the computer in, light was out, everything was groovy. Then it wouldn't start yesterday. Put the old computer in, starts right up. Took the car and the new computer in to the dealer to see if it lost the programming. They say the new computer is defective. Replaced the gas cap somewhere along the line also. Didn't fix it. I've been messing with this forever and about at the end. Car runs fine it's just that light drives me crazy.