OK as quick as possible..1994 Caravan 3.0L automatic. Cranks strongly and am getting spark at the plugs. I can hear the fuel pump whine when I turn the key but it won't fire up. EVEN if I spray starting fluid in the intake. However if you keep cranking it a long time it starts to struggle like it starting and and sometimes will start but runs roughly then die. I am thinking it seems like it's getting some fuel but just a small bit. But why wouldn't starting fluid get it going for a second or two?

 

I know squat about that engine, but here's what I'd do: First, test the fuel pressure with a gauge. Second, do a compression test. Report back with your findings, and we'll go from there.

 

Did it just happen all of a sudden? I know some of these 3.0s have timing belts; and if its jumped a tooth you will get the symptoms you just described. If it is belted,check timing CLOSELY: its hard to see it off by one tooth unless you look at both the cam and crank marks(use mirror if needed)

 

Hi. Thanks for the input. Plan to get a fuel pressure gauge and check it out. 2 weeks ago after I posted this we disconnected the fuel lines to make sure fuel was flowing before and after the filter to see if that was clogged and I disonnected the 2 fuel lines up at the fuel rail also. After we hooked all that back up it started and ran fine for about 10 days then did the same thing. Stall and crank but not start. Disconnected the fuel lines and it did start but ran rough and you had to keep your foot on the gas to keep it from stalling. Now it runs but a bit roughly.

 

Try this real quick, un plug the MAP sensor and try to start it.