97 explorer slow crank, no start

[warbie667]

hi guys, ive had my explorer for just over 6 months, and suddenly when my missus was driving it, it decided to just stop. It slowly cranks over when i try to start it and its got me buggered as to whats gone wrong. ive replaced the crank sensor, didnt make a difference. the engine is still getting fuel because when the engine turns over there is a strong smell of fuel, but occasionally when cranking it will fire out the intake manifold? seems like the timing is out but really im trying to find any conclusion that doesnt involve checking the rear timing chain! have also checked the front timing chains and guides and they are fine. so really im stumped! and help would be very much appreciated! thanks in advance and sorry if i have forgotten any info!
cheers
Ash

 

[OneofMany]

at first i was wondering how slow cranking was not a starting sytem issue, but when i read the fuel smell and stall im wondering if there isnt an issue with an injector. start pulling ign plugs to see if there is fuel in the cyl. also smell your oil for fuel. If an injector failed badly it could be filling a cylinder causeing it to hydro lock (or even partially). if not evidence of fuel, try starting with a plug out, go round till you find the offending cylinder. If an Inj. is stuck open it would not close when disconnecting the connector. I cannot see this thing having jumped time. dont catch yourself on fire.

 

[warbie667]

Finally got around to testing the injectors, doesn't seem like that's the problem unfortunately. Pulled off the right hand side rocker cover uncheck the timing and it looked like everything is where it should be, just have to take off the other side and hopefully that can lead us somewhere!

 

[2000StreetRod]

compression test?

The most reliable way to determine if there are camshaft timing problems is to perform a compression test. Low or no compression on all cylinders on one bank means slipped or broken timing chain on that bank. Low or no compression on all cylinders on both banks means slipped or broken primary (crankshaft to jackshaft) chain. The typical compression for the SOHC V6 is around 180 psi.