I have a 97 Buick LeSabre Limited that will not crank. I know this is a grand prix forum but they have the same basic engine and that is where the problem is. I have tried a few things so far:
-Taking out the plugs
-Taking off the belt
-Testing the starter
-Turning by hand
The engine still did not crank with the plugs out so it is not hydrolocked. The intake manifolds, yes both of them, are custom machined aluminum so the typical manifold problem is not there. Everything but the crankshaft pulley turns smoothly except the AC but the clutch is just dragging and making noise, not enough to stop an engine. I yanked the starter and tested it with no problems. Final thing I tried is turning it by hand both ways. It turns about 20 degrees and then won't move.
My thought right now is a broken timing chain or something. I want to try and get this running in three weeks because I need it for college classes. Anyone have any insight on this?
P.S. I am a mechanic so I know my way around this and many other cars.