My mechanic has replaced my 5sfe 1994 Camry engine and now can't get it to start. Any suggestions as to what suggestions I could give him? It is a direct fit replacement engine, it does have spark, & is getting fuel. Now he says he's not getting compression, 25psi in #1 (he didn’t say anything about 2,3, & 4) & says maybe the rings haven't been seated yet (he's going to try and put oil in the top of the cylinders to see if that helps…?). I ask if the timing belt was set properly & he says he thinks so, that he put it on before setting the engine in the car. My questions are…… Could the timing belt be far enough off to cause little compression and therefore no start...........? If this is the reason why engine won’t start, would it cause any damage to try and crank it to start it or would everything be OK & one would just reset the belt? Any suggestions…………… I want my sweet car back……….. a list for him to check, some kind words, anything…. Thanks, Dan

 

A few questions: Where did you get this engine, rebuilt, used, etc?

Regardless it should have OK compression unless a problem, 25 psi is very low.

Yes, the wrong belt installation can cause non-starting issues, you will need to check this.

Have the mechanic rotate engine to TDC with No 1 cylinder on compression stroke. Remove the distributor cap, the rotor should be at the No 1 plug wire location on the cap. If not, the cam/crank timing is off.

 

Thanks for the input, it is a reman engine & has a 12/12 warranty but does not cover mechanic work......... I'll give my mechanic your info & see what he has to say

Dan