just changed the thermostat housing now it won't start

[mgw]

99 4.0 SOHC

The water outlet/thermostat housing was cracked so I changed it. Now the thing wont's start. The starter engages the flywheel for a second and then spins as if it's disengaged too soon.

I took everything apart again and made sure I hadn't left any electrical or vacuum connections off and everything looks to be as it was before the repair.

Before this happened, it would sometimes crank and crank but not start unless I let go of the key and tried starting it again.

This is killing me because I have a date tonight and no other vehicle :thumbdwn:

 

[firepop5]

Sounds like your starter may be giving up the ghost

 

[johnnytulips]

check if you shorted out your crank sensor with coolant

 

[mgw]

check if you shorted out your crank sensor with coolant

where is it on this engine?

 

[J_C]

If your starter is still spinning but not turning the engine there are only 3 things I can think of.

1) Teeth on starter or flywheel are chewed up and whichever needs replaced.
2) Starter solenoid action is shot (replace starter).
3) Starter receiving inadequate power (least likely, it would have to be designed badly but some things in this world are...).