Well, this week when my fiancee's son was home for spring break I replaced the front half of the exhaust system, all the way and including the converter. New oxygen sensor, all to the tune of about $300. Everything from there back I replaced last year. Car started right up, ran fine while he had it here, and yesterday he drove it back to Morgantown.

Last night I get the call when he's at the gas station, car won't start. Same problem it was exhibiting last summer. Lights and wipers work but won't turn over.

An hour later, I call him back and the car starts.

He's driving the car back to the apartment after watching the game with some friends last night, and the car dies. I spoke with him just a bit ago this morning and he says it turns over but "with a real loud obnoxious" cranking noise. Still won't start, tow truck is on the way. So it's now time for the long distance diagnosis again.

Last time I inquired about this problem 3 things were the culprit. Fuel pump relay, radio suppression relay, and crank position/RPM sensor. I didn't replace any of these while he was home on break because the car ran so well on the trip back here from Morgantown (shame on me).

Among my many questions is this: Does the b230f (non turbo) engine have negative clearance between valves and piston if a timing belt snaps? I am fearing the worst with this loud obnoxious cranking.

Any other thoughts? I am planning on taking my Honda up to give to him as he needs reliable transportation, and this vehicle, in its current state, certainly isn't it. I'll tow this one back and use it for a daily driver, if I can ever get it reliable.

Once again, thanks again for the input.

Kurt