The first thing we need to do is to see if the car lacks fuel or if it lacks ignition fire.
The quickest way to see if it is a fuel problem is to spray a little starting fluid in the intake and see if it will run for a few seconds. If it does we know we have a fuel problem. Then remove the fuel tank cap and listen for the hum of the pump while someone cranks the starter. You should hear the pump hum for 2 seconds after the key is released. If no hum, test the gray wire going to the top of the tank for voltage while the starter is being cranked. If you have voltage and no pump, the pump is bad. If you hear the hum and no start, rent a gage and test the fuel pressure at the injection rail and let me know what it is when you turn the key on. Sometimes a good whack on the bottom of the fuel tank while the starter is engaged will make a lazy pump run again for a short time. If the problem is not fuel and you want to check for spark, just pull a couple of plugs and lay them on the motor so they have a ground path. Then, with the plug wire connected to the plugs, have someone crank the starter over while you watch the plugs. If they have good hot spark then the ignition system is ok Once we know which it lacks, we can concentrate our diagnostic efforts in that area. Let me know what you find. When you respond, please let us know what year, make, model and what motor we are working with. Thanks
Auto Tech
Plus 40 years GM, over 30 certified with Chevrolet, ASE certified Master Tech. (Expired, Retired)