1992 Volvo 240 Won't crank properly after head gasket job

xDread92x · Post by **xDread92x** » 25 Mar 2013, 15:25

So I finished my head gasket job and the car wont start. It doesn't even crank properly. It just makes a whirring noise consistent with how long I hold the key on start. I try to follow the timing marks but its bull**** because my crank wont line up with zero and allow the crank tool to lock so I can tighten it and keep it on zero. The tool will only lock when the crank is a little ways before zero. The gas smell is very rich and its flooding. I need to get this car on the road ASAP and I am pretty lost and beyond pissed at this point. I think i will get a new or used crank pulley because mine is old and the rubber is all warped. But the car should still start. I have adjusted the timing belt three times and there is still no change. The same whirring noise and the engine doesn't even crank properly. Usually the whole engine shakes and it will go, eh-eh-eh-eh. You know how an engine properly cranks. I am getting spark and plenty of fuel. Everything is properly connected. I don't know what happend but something may have gotten ****ed up during the last few weeks. Let me know something. Peace.

Post by **billofdurham** » 25 Mar 2013, 16:32

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

It seems that the oscillation damper has failed. That is the technical name for the pulley on the end of the crankshaft which you use to set the timing. It is two metal plates separated, but attached to, a rubber damper. When the metal and rubber part company you can not align the timing marks.

Bill.

xDread92x · Post by **xDread92x** » 25 Mar 2013, 16:38

Thank you for your response. How come my car ran before I disassembled everything?

Post by **billofdurham** » 26 Mar 2013, 13:53

Before you took it apart the timing was set. If the crankshaft pulley has deteriorated the mark on the pulley may no longer be in the correct place.

There is a comprehensive write-up by member Kmaniac in California USA on his problems with this subject.

Bill.

xDread92x · Post by **xDread92x** » 26 Mar 2013, 14:22

Thanks. I have ordered a new crank pulley and it should be here within a few days. I will install it and see what I can come up with.