92 cutlass ciera 3300 starts and runs on 5 cylinders, with number 3 spark plug wire off. when you put the number 3 spark plug wire on, wont start. ant ideas?

Asked by FRossi Mar 05, 2014 at 07:54 PM about the 1992 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera S Sedan FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The car sat for four years. Had to install new fuel pump and filter and clean out the fuel tank. Ran fine. I noticed a small water drip when I parked the car. The next day took a short trip. On the way back the car began run rough and stumble and barely made it into the drive way. I replaced the spark plugs and plug wires. The car would not start and run. I discovered when I took the number 3 spark plug wire of the car would start and run, when I put the number three spark plug wire on it would not start and run. Thinking it may have blown a head gasket I checked the oil and water, and is not mixed like a blown head gasket, no milk shake! replaced spark plugs but same problem. can it be a gasket were only water is getting in cylinder 3 or maybe an intake manifold gasket leak. there is good spark from the number three spark plug wire? Any ideas? Thx

2 Answers

103,825

I think you have a stuck or broken valve. Do a compression check on #3. If no compression, your valve is stuck.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    dandyoun
    Reputation
    260
  • #2
    Dean Flaten
    Reputation
    240
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    240
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.