Keeps shuttin off...

[Mitxubishi]

I have a 98 RST Eclipse. Just the other day my car just shut off. Lik at first, it was fine.... til I heard it dyin and goin and dyin and so on. Then about a couple minutes lata, it just stopped and the car completely shut off. So now, everytime I try and start it, the car starts and runs for about 3 seconds and shuts off. But rite before it cuts off, you this compressed air releasing for about a few seconds and then everythin shuts off. I have never had this problem before so seeing if anyone knows wot Im talkin bout or can give me some advice. Thanxs

 

[dr1665]

Couple unique questions since you're in the UK.

1. Is this a USDM non-turbo model with the Chrysler motor in it?
2. When you say "RST," do you mean the above motor with aftermarket turbo system installed? (As opposed to EU models with the non-turbo Mitsubishi engine.)

This will dictate how we go about solving this problem.

I'm not sure what you said in some of your post due to missing words, I think. Are you saying you saw steam/gas/vapor escaping from the engine bay prior to failure? Are all your fluid levels up to par? Spark plugs connected securely?

If this is a Chrysler version, you might check the MAP sensor, located on the far left end of the intake manifold (top). It will be the size of a larger Lego building block with two screws holding it in. You'd want to be sure it was clear of sludge or other obstruction.

If this is the Mitsubishi version, it could be related to the MAF sensor on the intake pipe after the air filter element. I'm not sure why this would result in gas escaping, but it could result in stumbling and stalling.

Seeing as you are overseas, you can't go to Autozone, but if you're US Military, there should be a hobby shop on base where someone might have an OBDII scanner to pull the codes from the ECU to give you a better idea of what's going on. If you can get *that* information, we're well on our way.

(I suggest US Military as I recall USAF being installed at Mindenhall in the early 90s, but I'm not sure if Lakenheath has USAF there or not.)

We'll get this sorted.

 

[Mitxubishi]

Hey srry about leavin some words out, was in rush to leave. But anyways, yes Im stationed in Lakenheath. Its was originally from the states and its a Eclipse RS. The last owner had place an aftermaket turbo sometime last year or so. I'll def look into wot you said and see wots the problem. I appreciate your help, you'll be hearing from me soon. Thanxs

 

[Locke]

srry=sorry?
wot=1. Wide Open Throttle, or 2. what?
lata=Later?
bout=about?

When it dies, does it just stop running, and spin itself down? Or does it immediately and abruptly stop? Does it counter rotate when it stops? Are the camshaft still aligned? Is the stall happening with a backfire or a popping sound?

Abrupt stop and counter rotating can cause a pressure sound to occur, and would likely be ignition timing related. (ECU, short in ignition harness, broken CPS or CKS, etc.)

If the cams are out of align from each other, it could cause air to travel backwards through the intake tract. (Jumped time, missing teeth on timing belt, etc.)

The more information you can give us as to when and how it occurs, with what sounds, etc.. will allow us to give more precise answers/suggestions. Detail is the key to diagnosing issues.

Good luck with it.