1992 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Reader Question: I own a 1992 Mitsubishi Eclipse. The problem is after I have been driving for about 30 minutes and the engine has risen to operating temperature the engine will shut down, after the engine has shut down it will not start until the engine has cooled down.

I have replaced the thermostat and coolant. The overall engine has run better but it still shuts down when driving after about 30-45 minutes.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Kenneth

Hey Kenneth,

Fuel pumps and ignition modules, distributor pick up coils and crankshaft sensors are items that tend to fail when they get hot and usually have to cool down again before they will operate. Next time the problem happens, check for spark at the spark plugs, and listen for the electric fuel pump to “whine” for 2 seconds when you turn the ignition key to the ON position.

If you do not hear the fuel pump, have someone beat on the bottom of the fuel tank with their fist or rubber hammer AS you crank the engine over. That can sometimes jump-start a weak fuel pump.

If you have fuel but no spark, start at the ignition coil and work your way to the distributor and crankshaft sensor to the spark plugs. You are either missing fuel or spark…just need to pinpoint which one.

Blessings,
Austin Davis