Three different shops have struggled with my '95 Montero LS since last December.

In the last 5 months I have only had the vehicle drivable for about 2 weeks total.

They have had the ECU rebuilt (2x), ignition module replaced (2x), coils replaced (2x), new plugs and sparkplug wires installed, and have spent hours checking wires in the engine compartment for a short or other problem.

Typically, the vehicle cranks over hard and fast, but won't start. When it DID start at the shop last week), it got me home and then wouldn't start the next morning. I have checked and reconnected wires to the ignition module, etc., but nothing makes a difference. Cranks but no start.

The mechanics from three shops are all scratching their heads over this. They say the Montero has a "gremlin" and don't know what more to check or do to enable it to start. The best auto-electrical guys in my city are stumped.

I am calling out to the gurus on the Montero Forum for insight and advice. PLEASE help me with information that my mechanics can try to solve this problem. I am desperate!

Rick1013

Rick 1013, I am not an expert on these engines (or any engine for that matter) but I would start by downloading the Factory Service Manual from mitsubishilinks.com and taking a look at the troubleshooting guide. Sounds like your mechanics have been pretty focused on the spark side of the issue what about the fuel side? Also are you getting any check engine codes?

Thanks, Djunk. I passed on the PDF and links to my mechanic.

I do remember a "check engine" light the last time the Montero was running (very few and far between), but have no idea what it was indicating. I reminded the mechanics to see if they noted that code.

The engine seems to be getting fuel as I could smell it the last time I tried starting the vehicle.

Have you done anything with throttle body? IAC or the internal T-stat thingy that is inside throttle body sticking?

Does it have spark when it won't crank? Have they checked the crank position sensor? You need several signals to get spark. You need crank position from the CPS above, a throttle position signal, and engine coolant temp signal.

I would also check all the grounds, or try a temp ground from the engine block to the batt neg post.

If none of the shops have consulted the FSM for diagnostic procedures then you need to find a more capable shop.

With you on that.

Something else to check. After pouring over service manuals I'd check the ECM grounding. It sounds like everything sensor and computer related is fine if it runs well when it runs. Sudden off/on running is almost certainly electrical and the older a vehicle gets proper grounding becomes a problem.

I have a similar on again off again problem. If you hose my big Sport down or drive it through a rain storm, all the electrical works perfectly. Until everything drys out again.

Edward