Quick question - not starting..?

[QuietRonin]

My 1990 Camry is having trouble starting sometimes. It will start fine once, then after I turn it off, the car won't start again for a couple hours (like, for example, if I come home from work, change, then try to leave 15 minutes later). When it doesn't start, the engine turns fine, but doesn't catch. It seems like it needs extra time to cool off.

It started this about a month and a half ago, when *gasp* warm weather started.

Anyone have any ideas?

[marc780]

This problem is aggravated, if nout caused by heat. Seen it lotta times on my other cars. Heres what id check -
1. how old is the battery? Is it weak? Get it tested if its over 2 yrs old. Also inspect the cables and clamps - they should be on tight enough that you cannot twist them with normal hand effort.
2. Soldenoid on the starter may be worn out, you may need a new starter.
3. Once i had this problem on my 85 nissan 200 sx, it turned out the valves were adjusted way too tight (no clearance). If the other two ideas dont fix it, check your valve clearances.

[Mike Gerber]

If marc780's ideas don't solve the problem, then I would next check out the coil inside the distributor. They are a known problem area on the generation 2's. It may be shorting itself to ground inside the distributor when hot. You will need a DVM (digital volt/ohmeter) and the specs from any manual to do this.

Mike

[QuietRonin]

Thanks, both of you. I'll be checking it out as soon as I get done with work.

[Doctor J]

[quote=QuietRonin]My 1990 Camry is having trouble starting sometimes. It will start fine once, then after I turn it off, the car won't start again for a couple hours (like, for example, if I come home from work, change, then try to leave 15 minutes later). When it doesn't start, the engine turns fine, but doesn't catch. It seems like it needs extra time to cool off

First, check if you have a spark, then check relays and connections in the fuse box.
You may also short B+ and Fp terminals in the diagnostic box (ign. key on, engine off) and feel for fuel pressure to build up.