Help near joshua tree!!!

Search
Go

Discussion Topic

Return to Forum List
This thread has been locked
Messages 1 - 116 of total 116 in this topic
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Original Post - Jan 25, 2013 - 04:22pm PT
So our van sucks and we put off changing the oil till we get to 29 palms and it seems that was a mistake, anyone in or near jtree that could bring us 2-3 quarts of 10w30 oil would be a life saver! & we could totally reimburse you for the oil, your gas & time! If you can help we are on hwy 62 coming from LA to the park in a blue GMC van 360.269.6022!
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 04:58pm PT
On the side of ca-62 coming from LA lol we are not moving.
Ksolem

Trad climber
Monrovia, California
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:03pm PT
I'll be passing by that way in the morning around 10:30. Hopefully someone can help you out sooner though. A lot of climbers will be driving through there tonight.

C'mon folks, someone go grab some oil and make the drop.

Is yer motor fried, or just low on oil?
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:09pm PT
I wish I could help, but I don't think I have enough gas to get there. I am stuck waiting for my own cash influx after having once again budgeted poorly.

Not that you want to hitchhike on 62, but you will probably get a ride. Put the hood up and wait for a bit, standing outside the van looking pathetic. Hopefully a state trooper will drive by and seem like an angel of the morning. Or a person who looks pretty normal, at least.

But have to worry, if you found you couldn't make it to town, that the van is.... I don't even want to write the words.

Edit: Just called the couple and it SEEMS that they are on the Yucca Valley side, not 29 Palms. They said they were going "up the hill" and in Morongo Valley. Also that the van isn't turning over.

I suggested they might call around and see if they can get a two into the WM lot and tell the two company they only have x amount of money for the tow. Don't know if that is stupid idea or not.
ß Î Ø T Ç H

Boulder climber
bouldering
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:10pm PT
Troll of the decade nominee. LOLOLOL!!!!
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:11pm PT
Call AAA and get an annual membership. They will have oil to you in no time for less money than you would otherwise spend. I have a feeling Supertopo road service is still working out some kinks.........
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:13pm PT
C'mon guys, at least let it roll a little bit...
Elcapinyoazz

Social climber
Joshua Tree
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:18pm PT
Where on the 62? Between the 10 and Morongo Valley, or between Morongo Valley and Yucca Valley (or between Yucca and Josh?)

Probably quicker just to hitch to Morongo or DHS.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:20pm PT
As I posted in edit above(while others were asking questions):

Just called the couple and it SEEMS that they are on the Yucca Valley side, not 29 Palms. They said they were going "up the hill" and in Morongo Valley. Also that the van isn't turning over.
Elcapinyoazz

Social climber
Joshua Tree
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:24pm PT
Just turn around and coast down the hill back into Morongo Valley. There's a Hardware store in the same compound as the Cactus Mart nursery, as well as 3 (at least) gas stations.
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:26pm PT
No, No, sit tight....helps on the way
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 05:58pm PT
KP Ariza - IF you KNOW help is on the way and have not called those people please do! I just spoke with them and they seem unaware of aid coming....

If you are joking - this isn't the time. Or at least say you were just kidding...


Someone just PayPaled me a sum to use to help the couple out and I called to let them know. It isn't going to pay for an auto mechanics bill, but it will help them out a bit.

It seems they are going to get a tow to the Yucca Walmart lot, as I told them they would be able to stay there overnight. They think the issue may be water pump or wiring(if I recall correctly).

They will call me when they get to the WM. Anyone out there who might want to take a look at the van?

Michelle

Trad climber
Toshi's Station, picking up power converters.
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:10pm PT
Crap, I'm broke too. Send me money peeps.
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:10pm PT
Please....
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:22pm PT
OK..... Hello again.

So did the van OVERHEAT?? Temp Guage go on?

RUN OUT of OIL??? OIL LIGHT ON WHILE DRIVEING and NO oil on dipstick when you looked.

If the answer to the questions is YES

Go smell the oil filler cap, the side with the oil on it. If it smells BURNT (a hard to describe smell - once you have smelled it - you know)

If the answer to all three is YES

Your most likley screwed.


Some times you can add oil and get the motor to "turn" and things will start working again.

Come back with some answers, ASAP. I to am going out that a ways Sat am ...... maybe I'll pack some tools and see if I can rescue you folks again.

Guy Keesee

verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 06:24pm PT
Not a troll, god just put me on this earth to suffer. But yeah putting every last dime towards a tow to WalMart in yucca. Stopped on the shoulder cause the van started to overheat, waited an hour to try starting it again and now it seems like the fuel pump stopped working... But at least supertopo ( or super taco! As my fiance thought it was) has been sympathetic! F*#king raining too wtf?
John M

climber
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:27pm PT
Raining too.. talk about suckage. been there done that. Good luck.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:27pm PT
I am going to go over when they get to the WMart lot.

Maybe we can do a diagnosis over the web at that time.

I didn't ask any questions about the technical aspects, because I felt they were pretty stressed out, and also wouldn't be able to really analyze on my own.

KP - Having spoken to the woman, I don't think they have seen that Supertopo is full of a bunch of saps who fall for cries of help and got an idea. But I guess I would rather be a sap than guilty of posting sarcasm in response to someone in need.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 06:30pm PT
The motor isn't seized, it is low on oil, but the wiring in this van isn't the best but I believe that its not getting fuel cause it turns over and gets spark just no start.lol Guy you are too nice once again!
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:33pm PT
These folks are not trolling...

So did you have a "DRY" dipstick?

That is the Key.


I know this cause my 2 kids have blown up 3 of my cars!


Keep notes cause you guys are going to have one hell of a TR about your trip to Josh.

EDIT... OK not seized is great. You need a jump from a good battery. Make sure your cables are not corroded and fit tight.

get it to wall mart.
WBraun

climber
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:37pm PT
If it's a carbureted and not fuel injected you can drive without a fuel pump by gravity feeding the fuel into the carburetor.

Just disconnect the fuel line and punch a hole in the bottom of a container and stick a small rubber fuel line in it.

Seal it with seal all.

connect the hose to the carb fuel intake and away you gou.

I've done this and is the redneck fix to get going again.

Hooo Rahhh .....
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:42pm PT
Hopefully VB is less terrified of redneck repair than I!
survival

Big Wall climber
Terrapin Station
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:45pm PT
This is too good to be true.

Better be a helluva TR after all this!

Take pictures!
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 25, 2013 - 06:58pm PT
Happy, read my original post. Perfectly reasonable advice for someone in there predicament. Quite frankly though, it seems ridiculous to me that somebody who apparently spends a lot of time road tripping wouldn't have thought of that in the first place. Better yet, why not enroll with AAA before hitting the road at all. They could give better advice and service than you will be able to.
These folks are grown adults, they should be able to navigate a bit of car trouble w/out posting a f*#king "Rambler" alert on line.
So yes, the whole thing seemed a little suspicious to me. BTW, since you've resorted to name calling, you're the sap. Go put on your nuns garb and reel 'em in sister.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:01pm PT
KP - I don't believe I called you a name? I said I - me - would rather be a sap, than guilty of posting sarcasm.
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:07pm PT
Oh yes AAA is the best buy in the world, next to REIs return policy. I get the doubble gold membership..... Towed the Kids blown up car home....from Baker CA.

If I had to pay for that tow it would have cost about a $1,000 ....

Any-way.... a bit of bad luck can be over come with the help of the ST TRIBE.

And Werner..... To make the fuel pump you describe work even better. Use the fuel container from a coleman white gas stove. The pump gives you fuel pressure.... that way your passenger can keep it pumped up while you drive.
Batrock

Trad climber
Burbank
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:12pm PT
In my old Land Rover field repair manual it suggests using the windshield wiper fluid pump as a make shift fuel pump. Several years ago my fuel pump took a dive in the Saline Valley and I was able to get into Bishop using this trick. Just hit the wiper fluid switch every 30 seconds or so and it worked like a charm.
jstan

climber
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:16pm PT
4:16PM
Called them up. They have successfully gotten to Walmart. Now it is just a matter of doing the diagnostics.
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:23pm PT
Go get a can of "starter spray" ..... crank engine - spray a bit and see if it fires up on the spray. If it does, fuel pump is most likley the root cause.

I think you have a mechanical fuel pump in that van. Pretty cheap and easy to fix.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 07:29pm PT
yeah so we got a tow to the yucca valley WalMart,thanks for the calls and replies our van isn't the greatest it cost $600 and for all the possibilities that could go wrong it making it 1400 miles and this being the first break down, I am happy. There will be a big TR but really this is not a trip, this is a life change after to many years or working and doing everything your supposed to( school, work, etc) I was tired of being perpetually unhappy and made a short notice decision to move into a van and do what I want to be happy, climb! While a bit short sighted and whimsical it made a lot of sense to me. I've had severe depression and borderline personality disorder since I was 12( 12 years) that a long with an alternative view of society and ours particularly here in the US led me to be certain I would be happier homeless and living more simply. Having the wonderful partner I do she agreed to brave the huge step outside her comfort zone & come along, that being the gas I had to spend a substantially larger amount of my budget on creature comforts ie; more insulating, a bed in the van, solar power for her laptop & camera charger etc. Leaving us with a lot less for mishaps and problems, after being shorted $500 on my last check that has pretty much left us broke but not without avenues for future food&gas. Those that have helped thus far have done substantial justice to reaffirming my faith in human decency, anyone with negative comments can kiss my ass. In summation we are just trying to be happy, and I am just doing my best with what i have.
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Jan 25, 2013 - 07:48pm PT
Guy said:
"my 2 kids have blown up 3 of my cars!"
You didn't explain about putting oil in the car after the first one? LOL.

ps, I've found that by having kids at least you know where your tools are when you go get them....someplace else, to be determined.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 25, 2013 - 08:21pm PT
Haha well then you'll love my 37th post... Cause I didn't include that one of the gentleman that helped us while in Calabasas gave us some alcohol( yay free alcohol) which included a 1981 bottle of crown that contributed to me tripping and breaking my nose on our rear window! Ill include a picture of all the blood once we have laptop battery.
Also bought starting fluid fired up so it is either dead fuel pump or the wiring!
Todd Gordon

Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
Jan 25, 2013 - 08:23pm PT
I'm in joshua tree and I will be around most all weekend.....call me up and tell me what you need;...I'll help you out any way I can....(760) 366-9395......I live here in town....but was at work all day or I would have responded earlier.......
Big Mike

Trad climber
BC
Jan 25, 2013 - 09:59pm PT
Dude rough! If it fired up than it ain't the wiring because if it was you wouldn't get spark. Sounds like you found your fuel issue. Probably the pump. maybe a clog?
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 25, 2013 - 10:34pm PT
Well, I did find them out at the Walmart, and yeah, the starter fluid fired it up. The guy (I forget his name already!) thinks wiring but....

I told them about my fuel pump story and how the pirate mechanic diagnosed it after spraying starter fluid(fired right up). He yarded on the gas tank with a 2 x 4, and then said "Crank on it" and it started again...He said "It's your fuel pump." hahah

But he didn't seem ready to run that diagnostic. Anyway - they are safe at WM, we had a beer(well, I had no alcohol, but thought they could use one) and some food, and tomorrow he is going to see what he can see, about why it won't go. Sounds like he is mechanically inclined, which puts him many steps ahead of me. But his van seems to be acting just as mine did when the fuel pump went.

Oh! One thing they mentioned. They heard the humming sound of fuel pump the other night - but when the van was OFF, no key in ignition and had been sitting. I guess that is why he thinks wiring, but could the fuel pump have "kept going" or something after it was supposed to shut down (hence the hum), and worn out?
bergbryce

Mountain climber
California
Jan 25, 2013 - 11:45pm PT
this settles it...
I'm moving to Jtree and opening a garage.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 11:44am PT
So when I've said the wiring, I mean the wiring to the fuel pump, the van has an electric pump cause its a throttle body injected motor. Not quite sure how to easily test the wiring so probably going to drop the tank, remove the pump and test it if that's the problem we are hoping an individual from Sacramento doesnt flake on buying some stuff so we can replace the pump, otherwise its a cardboard sign again until we get our tax returns. Thanks for everyone's advice and assistance.


-Andrew
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 11:45am PT
And we never got free weed, except from a guy selling bootleg movies outside WalMart in Sacramento lol.
WBraun

climber
Jan 26, 2013 - 11:51am PT
On a huge lark just try and open the gas cap and see if it starts ......
rottingjohnny

Sport climber
mammoth lakes ca
Jan 26, 2013 - 11:56am PT
On a huger lark , drop a M-80 down the gas tank...it might save you some money in the long run....?
Srbphoto

climber
Kennewick wa
Jan 26, 2013 - 11:57am PT
[Click to View YouTube Video]
rottingjohnny

Sport climber
mammoth lakes ca
Jan 26, 2013 - 12:18pm PT
2nd mistake...He's not wearing the lip-service....RJ
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 01:11pm PT
Gotta love Craigslist flakes, anyone interested in buying a brand new 145 watt solar panel? Or some brand new ascenders or brand new climbing shoes so hopefully we can fix this beast?
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:14pm PT
I've had luck just buying a generic fuel pump, cutting the fuel line somewhere in the middle and hard wiring the pump to the battery and a switch on the dash. Can't say I really recommend it but it's gotten a couple junkers down the road a few months when I needed to.

Have you checked your fuel filter(s) ?
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 01:17pm PT
Could someone find a pic of a fuel pump relay for a 1988 GMC g2500 and post it so I dont have to waste all my phone battery?
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:20pm PT
THIS MAY BE A GOOD DESRIPTION OF LOCATION.. mebbe not

Fuel pump relay is located under the hood on passenger side bolted to the firewall a few inches below the windshield. It is black and has wires going into it.



happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:20pm PT
VB....As we discussed last night, a person has donated money to assist you to a point. I am pretty sure a fuel pump for your van is under $50, which will easily be covered by that donation.

I am in Yucca this morning and was intending to see how things are coming along. I'll stop over to the van in a bit. If you aren't there, I'll give a call.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 01:24pm PT
fantastic, so I dont know a lot about auto electrical systems, disconnected the fuel pump relay and... When you shake it you can hear the ocean! Or rather the fucing thing is full of water. Now the question, could that have shorted out my fuel pump or would I just need to replace the relay and check the fuse?
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:25pm PT
If it has water in it it's a good chance it is not working. Dunno if it could fry your pump.

Looks like $10-$15 to find out. Clearly need to replace relay anyway so start there. Good luck. Maybe you'll fire right up!
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 01:40pm PT
Well luck would have it we had a relay in the van, so its replaced but still no start.wondering if the water filled rest could have shorted out fuel pump or anything else
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:43pm PT
Good luck.
Josh seems to be the Bermuda Triangle for vans.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 26, 2013 - 01:54pm PT
Do you hear anything from the pump? If the pumps sounds like it's working it may just take some time to prime and clear the air out of the line. If after several minutes it still does not work.. check your fuel filter(s).

If the pump makes no noise stop trying wait 30 minutes and try again. If it still makes no noise then you probably have a bad fuel pump.
chalkfree

Trad climber
Claremont, CA
Jan 26, 2013 - 02:30pm PT
I found this link that talks about GMC fuel pump relay and some things to check (from a mechanic).

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071024214833AASN2mi

The ECM fuse may have blown. Check that if you can find it or all the fuses. When the fuel pump was running with engine off, that may have been the water soaking situation causing weirdness.

Good luck.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 26, 2013 - 04:53pm PT
Anyone have a tow strap and 3/4- 1 ton rig willing to tow us 7 miles up the road to the pit? If so we are next to jack in the box and phone battery is now gonna die.
KP Ariza

climber
SCC
Jan 26, 2013 - 05:48pm PT
I'll have to admit that my my initial reaction and views about your situation were short sighted at best. Pretty neat to see the way people have come together for you.
Good Luck.
ClimbingOn

Trad climber
NY
Jan 26, 2013 - 06:39pm PT
I'm glad people are helping you. I've been in almost exactly your same position in exactly the same place. If you get a tow to the pit, please, please do not leave your van there forever if you can't get it fixed. The pit does not need another dead vehicle.
Chaz

Trad climber
greater Boss Angeles area
Jan 26, 2013 - 07:11pm PT
"...please, please do not leave your van there forever if you can't get it fixed. The pit does not need another dead vehicle."




verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 27, 2013 - 12:27am PT
Definitely not gonna leave it anywhere. But could still use someone willing to tow us the 6 miles there's. No hwy so it's be an easy job if you can help we are still parked next to jbo in the WalMart parking lot.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:21pm PT
Bump for update on the mini epic...

We went and picked up the fuel pump this morning, assuming that was the culprit.
After dropping the tank, he determined that the fuel pump was not the issue, and also that the fuel filter was not clogged.

I don't know what all he has been doing with various wiring things, but seems he has checked fuses and cleaned wires/replaced as needed when found corrosion and such.

He went to turn the engine and it DID almost start. It turned over and made a couple of those grumbly, grumpy engine sounds, but then cut out quickly and cleanly.

Next try at turning produced no combustion-like sounds. Cranking but (to my ear which may be wrong) no combustion. He now feels the issue must be right near the injection points and is researching for ideas but....

the van still sits at Camp WallyWorld.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 27, 2013 - 06:29pm PT
Anyone able to tell me why the tbi injectors will do nothing? As terry said the pump works, lines are clear, but the injectors will not provide fuel, engine has spark as starting fluid will make it fire but I am at a loss. Little mechanical knowledge and lack of say a multi meter have me at a loss and very demoralized.
WBraun

climber
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:34pm PT
Did you try it with the gas cap open?

I just went thru the same problem here with a crown vic police interceptor.

It would not fire until I opened the gas cap.

The gas cap was defective and after replacement everything worked flawless again.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:39pm PT
Yes he did. No go.

We are now taking some TBI part(may be wrong term) to see if they can test it at the shop.
WBraun

climber
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:41pm PT
OK

Good luck folks ......
TGT

Social climber
So Cal
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:45pm PT
I wouldn't do that yet!

Pull the OBD codes and see what it reads.

The computer is probably not sending a signal to the injectors or your fuel pressure is low.

There are a number of things that can cause both.

You'll go broke guessing.

On the older GMs you can ground a pin in the computer connector and the trouble light will flash out a code if you don't have access to an OBD reader.

Look up the code in the manual and it will point you in the right direction.

It will not tell you definitively what's wrong though!

Scientific method applies here.

Theorem

Proof, step by step.

no guessing.

Example:

OBD code says no throttle position signal.

That doesn't mean you run to the parts store for a new one until you've proved that all the connections are good and it really is bad as indicated by direct measurements.

WBraun

climber
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:51pm PT
Pull the OBD codes and see what it reads.

The best advice at this point in time for sure ......
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 27, 2013 - 06:56pm PT
Getting those codes really could be a lifesaver at this point.

Hmm another thing to try would be clearing the computer by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 27, 2013 - 07:15pm PT
And that probably would be stern advice if half the wiring in this $600 van looked correct, my issue is the van ran fine, started to overheat we pulled over let it sit for an hour and then... No fuel. Had it towed, verified pump is fine lines are clear, grounds all appear to be solid besides a little old. I guess im just to unqualified, lacking in tools, and broke to reach a solution.
verticalbound

Trad climber
Anchorage
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 27, 2013 - 08:09pm PT
Serious question if i am going to check each injector for power should i be using the second wire( blue on one, green on the other) as the meter ground?
Jon Beck

Trad climber
Oceanside
Jan 28, 2013 - 02:11am PT
Time to fire off the . . . . .



neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Jan 28, 2013 - 04:22am PT
hey there, say, all...

i have now learned this from supertopo:

do not buy a van--unless you know all this tricky stuff, and
can solve mysteries...

for me, that is... :O

prayers and well wishes for you all, and for all those
that are helping out...
hootowl

Mountain climber
VA
Jan 28, 2013 - 10:42am PT
Happygrrllll is one hell of a great person. Happie I am going to donate to YOU on PayPal as soon as I get paid on Saturday. Seriously. I don't need a chalkbag but you have gone above and beyond. I have to admit, like others, I thought these people were super-trolls, esp after the Peru debacle we recently ran through here. But they are just young folks in need of help. I intend to help as soon as I can. But I think I will refill Happie's coffers since she is onsite and seems to be a godsend to these youngsters. Way to go Happie! This website is an enormous bundle of contradictory types and personalities and stories. This is a good one! I hope Vertical enjoys his time in Josh once he gets there.
Abend

Social climber
Jan 28, 2013 - 11:59am PT
Happygrrllll is one hell of a great person

+1!!
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 28, 2013 - 12:03pm PT
VB... hang in there. This is sort of like your 1 pitch from top of wall and now your rope is stuck!!!

Clear thinking is needed to solve the riddle.

The thing cranked and "started" on the "Spray" right?

GOOD, that means you didn't fry the motor.

You dropped the tank and the "pump runs" .... so the pump works.. ie "it pumps the fuel" all the way to the INJECTOR MAIN UNIT ... Crack the line at the place where the fuel enters this.... lots of fuel when you turn on the KEY.

If no ... your fuel is not getting to the injectors.

If yes.... do you have water in your fuel??? (a tiny bit will mess up the works) Drain some of the the fuel into a glass jar and let it sit... the water will seperate.

Back to the RELAY, the one that was full of water and the replacement one you found in the van. Do not ASUME the replacement is/was good. Maybe put the one that was full of water back on, after it dries out.

Get out the starter spray... if you can get it to turn over again and fire on the SPRAY, do it. Then remove a plug and look at the electrode end.

If its wet and smells like fuel, you have water in your fuel and you can't run intill you get dry fuel into it. ( toss a few mothballs into tank ) if you got em.

You need to make sure nothing is wet or corroded in the electrical system, moisture in the fuse box, computer brain, throttle body switch or any of the wireing can be death to the little, weak 5 volt signals your injector system is looking for.

Lastly take a walk and give that van some time to dry out, sometimes water and moisture can kill you esp with old crappy cars.

Keep your chin up and let us know how this works out...



justthemaid

climber
Jim Henson's Basement
Jan 29, 2013 - 10:25pm PT
@OP

You really might want to consider another line of work.. you don't seem to be a very good dirtbag.
jstan

climber
Jan 29, 2013 - 10:50pm PT
This is a pretty tough crowd.
zBrown

Ice climber
chingadero de chula vista
Jan 29, 2013 - 11:05pm PT
I have to kinda of agree with both the J's.

I'm torn here. I've helped out people in need before, but I had to ask myself, how did they becomes so needy.




Big Mike

Trad climber
BC
Jan 29, 2013 - 11:08pm PT
He'll do ok . It's just been a rough start. Who out there hasn't learned a few things the hard way...
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 29, 2013 - 11:56pm PT
Mike... +1

Skip... you ever Really Dirt bag?

happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 30, 2013 - 12:42am PT
Here is a (slightly edited version) of a response to Guyman who emailed me a short while ago:

They made it to the Pit with the van yesterday morning via tow from a person found on Craigslist..

But, it is still not running. I went to the WM when they arrived there, but as it was nearing dusk, not much work was done that night. A little finagling with no results and I said "You probably could use a beer" and took them for dinner at Las Palmas in Yucca.

Saturday was spent with Andrew trying this and that, hoping he would not have to drop tank and replace fuel pump, but by that night felt that must be the problem.

Sunday bought a fuel pump, but when he tested the on in van, it was not bad. Returned fuel pump, and tested Ignition Relay(or something or other) which was also not not bad. The guy at shop said he'd had similar issue which turned out to be his coil, $20 part,and suggested to test it. But that, if bad, you had to remove distributor to get to replace it, and tension springs in that piece would render it useless once removed.... That part cost $125.

Yesterday they took a day and went climbing with others here at the Pit, and today Andrew did the same while Cheney did errands in town and charged batteries for phone so Andrew could again use it to search fix it info....

That is where it stands as of now.

A Supertopian Lady has donated some money to assist, and I told him with that and what I could donate, he would have up to $200 toward doing so. So, I guess he needs to figure out what the real issue is... and then we go from there.
***

I couldn't have done anything had someone been the REAL person who helped, with cash. I didn't even have enough money that day to drive over and commiserate with them in person without that. So, I have given them some drive around help and emotional support but you know - my life is pretty unstructured, and I could do my online work(and get into disgusting trouble on this forum) while waiting in between fix attempts.


One thing - was talking to Clark today about the van symptoms, and mentioned that it "almost started" with Starter Fluid sprayed into the carbeurator area, but he said that if the van has fuel injection, then starter fluid would be useless.

I am pretty sure Andrew did say it is fuel injection. But maybe I misunderstood.

One other thing I just recalled - Andrew said he felt it must be a bad grounded wire somewhere, and that there are like 30 to choose from and that was his next area of focus.

But, their phone is charged now, so maybe he will post an update.
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 30, 2013 - 12:50am PT
Thank you.
It's good that some climbing got done.

Jon Beck

Trad climber
Oceanside
Jan 30, 2013 - 12:51am PT
Best of luck to the OP, but I have to agree that launching off on a long road trip in a 600 dollar van and little money or car know-how is not smart. Kinda funny that the guy has a smart phone that is probably worth more than the van! Somebody needs to help this poor guy, he is lucky the auto parts store took the electrical parts back.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 30, 2013 - 01:03am PT
Luckily, he didn't open up the fuel pump packaging, so in as new shape. He tested the old one and saw it was not the issue.

Seems Andrew does have some know-how with vehicles, just not able to get this one figured out as of yet. He has been methodically going through the various components and troubleshooting.

I am hoping it is eventually some stupid not too expensive part. Will mention the thread update to him tomorrow, if I see them before I leave(Teddy has doctors appointment early).
Curt

climber
Gold Canyon, AZ
Jan 30, 2013 - 01:06am PT
Just an observation, but to start an engine you need spark, fuel and compression. If the engine truly started (as mentioned) using the starter fluid--you already have spark and compression, so that would seem to leave a fuel supply issue. Therefore, you can probably rule out the coil/ignition related issues and focus on why the engine is not getting gas. Good luck guys.

Curt
ß Î Ø T Ç H

Boulder climber
bouldering
Jan 30, 2013 - 01:13am PT
You guys are still falling for this ruse?
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 30, 2013 - 01:21am PT
To be very clear - these two did not ask me to spend one cent of that money outright, and seemed to have forgotten it existed until I reminded them. They then continued to troubleshoot. It was only when they came to the point where dropping tank/replace fuel filter seemed the next thing to try did they meekly ask if I still had the money to help.

Agree or disagree with the decision process, but for god's sake - why do people think every damned thread from someone who isn't a known entity is a troll or scam?

drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Jan 30, 2013 - 01:30am PT
maybe y'all should pool your money and buy a toyota! ;-)
good for you for helping them.
freewheelin without a net is dicey.
character building.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Jan 30, 2013 - 02:32am PT
A couple answers i found on the web with issues similar to yours.

--

hi, check the connections at the ecm,i think it's under pass front seat,i've had a couple of those years loose injector signal at ecm connector,if you have a test light you can unplug injectors and test across terminals ,it's a 12v signal at inj ,if lights flash on both while cranking try plugging in one at a time and see if either sprays, if one does and not the other, you would have a shorted injector
-------


you will need to check the fuel pressure first. the vortec engines need 55 psi of fuel pressure to start and run efficiently. if fuel pressure is good then check for power and injector pulse before condemning the ecm (you will need a wiring diagram.)
darkmagus

Mountain climber
San Diego, CA
Jan 30, 2013 - 10:40am PT
This is one of the most entertaining threads of all time, it has it all: internet panhandling, unabashed dirtbaggery, and broken-down vehicles. All set in tweaker country. Classic!!
pelut espania

Big Wall climber
Espania
Jan 30, 2013 - 10:52am PT
En mi country, this would be called "los ciegos guiando a los retrasados" and is very much LOL.
Jon Beck

Trad climber
Oceanside
Jan 30, 2013 - 11:37am PT
You can borrow a lot of tools from Autozone for free, such as fuel pressure gauge, but you have to leave a deposit.
Elcapinyoazz

Social climber
Joshua Tree
Jan 30, 2013 - 02:14pm PT
launching off on a long road trip in a 600 dollar van and little money or car know-how is not smart

Sounds to me like this young feller has pretty damn good car know-how. Not many people dropping fuel tanks in strip mall parking lots, ya know.
ruppell

climber
Jan 30, 2013 - 02:19pm PT
Agree or disagree with the decision process, but for god's sake - why do people think every damned thread from someone who isn't a known entity is a troll or scam?


Ummmmmmmmm? Because it's the interweb. lol
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jan 30, 2013 - 03:40pm PT
Thank you.
It's good that some climbing got done.

Wow doubble - Delayed post.


I went and helped these two when they were stuck in Calabasas....

I was very impressed with Andrew and his attitude. He knows that some sh#t went wrong but he was using his resources and brains.

He was on Craigs list and had sold some of the extra stuff they had, so he was getting cash not by begging but by selling stuff.

Looks like now they are at the PIT and thats a good thing. He can get in some climbing and get that sucker fixxed.

To all the folks who are calling scam, dumb, stupid, not planned well etc..... I just want to say this.

Were you ever a young climber, roadtripping and had something go wrong????

I have been there before and I learned from my mistakes. I am sure Andrew is learing some things too.

Happy climbing

HF

climber
I'm a Norwegian stuck in Joshua Tree
Jan 30, 2013 - 04:25pm PT
"To be very clear - these two did not ask me to spend one cent of that money outright, and seemed to have forgotten it existed until I reminded them. They then continued to troubleshoot. It was only when they came to the point where dropping tank/replace fuel filter seemed the next thing to try did they meekly ask if I still had the money to help."

So why would they have to ASK for the money that were donated to them?

HF
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 30, 2013 - 06:05pm PT
HF - What happened was:
 A person PayPaled me some funds, to use to get gas to go see what I could do for these people. At the time, it seemed like it was the fuel pump, and also that they were paying out an amount for towing which would put a nice dent in money they had earmarked.

I let Andrew and Cheney know that I had this amount made available - and it was in my PayPal account which I have a credit card attached to. I have long since forgotten the debit card PIN for that card, and never bothered to go to PayPal and figure it out, sine I can simply use the card in "credit" mode. To get the funds as cash, I would need to either get on the phone with PayPal and do that, or transfer funds to my bank account, which can take up to 3 days to do.

It seemed easier to me to just say "I can help you to a point, let me know what you need." and pay as needed via the credit card especially since I figured they could use the help in transportation in getting to car parts store and such. I assumed this would all happen that night and the next day, time during which I made myself available at their call. Of course I did work online during this time, and was not sitting there alongside them - I would call or stop over throughout the day, see what they needed, and pay for things as they came up. Andrew trouble-shooted and worked through Saturday, and decided to drop the tank on Sunday.

For what it's worth -the person who sent hat money is aware of all this, and has sent me an email telling me they have no problem with it.

I have also let Andrew know that, now that I have gotten my own cash flow going again, that there is X amount of funds available to help with car repair.

It seems you might live in JT, HF? If so -why not swing by the Pit and introduce yourself, take your own look at the van if you have any suggestions as to what they might look for.



As update -it seems they have ruled out the coil being the problem, after feeling that it was in fact the issue. They are back to looking at the various ground connections, and apparently there are like 30 of them.

HF

climber
I'm a Norwegian stuck in Joshua Tree
Jan 30, 2013 - 06:53pm PT
Thank you for taking the time to explain this.
HF
StahlBro

Trad climber
San Diego, CA
Jan 30, 2013 - 07:01pm PT
It is only a matter of time before one of these threads gets picked up as the basis for a reality TV show.

Curt

climber
Gold Canyon, AZ
Jan 30, 2013 - 07:15pm PT
...As update -it seems they have ruled out the coil being the problem...

Duh. Too bad they didn't read my post above.

Curt
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 30, 2013 - 08:12pm PT
They DID Curt...and have been reading the thread.

When I let Andrew know about the "coil suggestion" the guy at parts store mentioned, he frustratingly said "ggggrrrrrrr..."(well,okay,m not exactly that, but you get the idea). I would assume he tested it because 1) It was there and 2) he hadn't yet found the problem

rwedgee

Ice climber
canyon country,CA
Jan 30, 2013 - 08:36pm PT
It's not a troll, I have met them and seen the van. Shocked it made it that far. LOL
graniteclimber

Trad climber
The Illuminati -- S.P.E.C.T.R.E. Division
Jan 31, 2013 - 12:36am PT
After reading this thread It is interesting to see how giving and generous and forgiving Supertopians can be.

Not the same treatment as the climbers that got attacked in Peru at all.
J. Werlin

Social climber
Cedaredge, CO
Feb 2, 2013 - 04:28pm PT
Nice post Coz.
Psilocyborg

climber
Jun 5, 2014 - 04:14pm PT
nailed, and jailed, then nailed IN jail ;-)
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jun 5, 2014 - 04:31pm PT
So i ask this to "The Hawk" how do you tie these two to whats going on over on MP???

Looks sort of like the photos, the chick anyway. ( I remember women, better then dudes )

I have a phone # for Andrew......I gave em some money, well filled the Van up FULL when they were stuck at a gas station in my neck of the woods....

let me know
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jun 5, 2014 - 05:09pm PT
THX, I'll contact the dude at MP, give him the phone # I have......

These folks seem nice, but the world is full of flakes.....


maybe no more credit, in the climbing world.

ClimbingOn

Trad climber
NY
Jun 5, 2014 - 06:52pm PT
I remember reading this thread when it first surfaced. This guy is truly a piece of work. He has stolen from me and I do not take that lightly. The climbing community looks out for one another, not steals from one another. Major bad karma and worse for Andrew.
DRV

Trad climber
Jun 5, 2014 - 08:12pm PT
I got ripped off by these 2 as well...ClimbingOn and I have been in contact and are seeing this does not go down quietly (he's done some really excellent detective work btw).

What really bums me out, is that I've met folks in JTree, Camp 4, and random crags across the country that have literally held my life in a nylon rope, some just a few minutes after meeting. The climbing community is a magical phenomenon and to has these jokers mess with that is blasphemy.

I'll let the finale of this pain-in-the-ass event be told. Thanks for the info and support!
ruppell

climber
Jun 5, 2014 - 08:45pm PT
You got scammed. Deal with it.

Or

Take a trip to Leavenworth, WA.

Find the guy. Beat the crap out of him with the ice axes he promised to sell you.

Then take a trip to Leavenworth yourself.

Moron
Gary

Social climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Jun 5, 2014 - 08:48pm PT
Moron

Climbon is the moron? WTF, you working with the thieves?
ruppell

climber
Jun 5, 2014 - 09:14pm PT
Climbon is the moron? WTF, you working with the thieves?

Yep. If you GIFT anyone money on paypal your a moron. Unless, it's family or friends. In this case it was neither. So, hence the use of the word moron. Read the MP thread to enlighten yourself.
overwatch

climber
Jun 6, 2014 - 12:16pm PT
...make sure your sh#t is straight
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jun 6, 2014 - 01:09pm PT
Guyman and / or ClimbingOn (whoever sent money via PayPal):


I just filled the tank with gas....

I have done this before for people who were "stuck" at stations. If I got scammed so be it.

I hope that some of the people I have helped were genuine.

These folks are climbers, members of the tribe, that makes it hurt some.

I feel for the KID, what sort of life is he going to lead?

Dead beat, scamming parents.

pretty sad.
guyman

Social climber
Moorpark, CA.
Jun 6, 2014 - 01:20pm PT
LOCKER..... just wait a bit. Mybe I'll show up.

skcreidc

Social climber
SD, CA
Jun 11, 2014 - 08:55am PT
Talk about persistence. Good for those two!
couchmaster

climber
Jun 11, 2014 - 09:04am PT
copy pasted from Mountain Project for longevity:
"Update:

Success! Both Dan and I have received all of our money back. This is completely due to PayPal and not that scumbag Andrew. I'm confident that without this thread and the lengths I went to as far as deconstructing Andrew and Cheyney's lives that neither Dan nor I would have seen a dollar of our money back. I believe that Andrew saw that if he responded to the PayPal claims it would have been something akin to lying under oath in court and would have negative consequences with any legal action Dan and I may have taken.

I made this personal for Andrew and Cheyney. Instead of being able to hide behind the fake Internet ID Andrew Love, I dug and made it about their real names, their real lives. I went to great lengths and tracked down and contacted many of Andrew and Cheyney's real-life friends and acquaintances. I gave them the backstory, explained that Andrew and Cheyney had stolen a great deal of money, and linked them to this thread. Now instead of Internet strangers knowing that Andrew and Cheyney are thieves, their real-life circle of friends know they are thieves.

Andrew and Cheyney lost on all counts. They have been publicly identified and shamed, the climbing community (or at least a reasonable portion of it) knows about them and the extent of their scams, their friends and acquaintances now know the real Andrew and Cheyney, and they did not end up with a dime of our money. While there are certainly no winners in this case, I feel good that most likely Andrew and Cheyney will be unable to continue stealing from climbers, that people here will ask a few more questions when purchasing gear, and that this is now behind me. "

Port

Trad climber
San Diego
Jun 11, 2014 - 09:42am PT
Well done guys. Well done.

Olympia has a lot of tweekers. I saw the 360 area code and it all made sense.
Messages 1 - 116 of total 116 in this topic
Return to Forum List
 
Our Guidebooks
spacerCheck 'em out!
SuperTopo Guidebooks

guidebook icon
Try a free sample topo!

 
SuperTopo on the Web

Recent Route Beta