Trouble cranking...every once in a while

[headrush]

Alright guys, I'm sure this question has been asked a million times and I've done just about all the searching I can do. Cranked the car up about a week ago, wouldn't crank...gave it a few tries, finally it cranked and it was fine until yet again, last night it wouldn't crank. I got my brother to help me take a look at it and we both decided it's not the battery or the starter because the engine is trying to turn over, power/radio/lights are working. After a few more tries it cranked right up and I took it straight to my mechanic, now I'm just sitting here waiting for the verdict...funny thing is I just got my new wires and plugs a few days ago, haven't had the time to install them...I'm hoping it's not the fuel pump. Any ideas? Thanks.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Is it not cranking or not catching?

 

[headrush]

sorry, bad choice of words...not catching, as in the engine is trying to turn over, but it just cant, sounds like its just about to start up, but then it just dies.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the fuel pressure.

 

[unclemeat]

Check the battery voltage.

 

[headrush]

Anyone know anything about the crankshaft position sensor? and is it an easy fix for me to do myself? Mechanic seems to think that might be the culprit but right now its starting up just fine. Only time will tell if it happens again. Battery and fuel pressure are fine.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Turn the engine with a breaker bar or a ratchet. Every few seconds, the signal from the crankshaft position sensor will cause the fuel pump to prime. If not, then that might be one of the problems.

 

[headrush]

Looks like the CPS is a $15 dollar part...replacement wouldn't hurt, might give it a shot