After no progress researching this online, I've decided to seek help from the knowledgeable minds here. I hope at least someone hear is familiar with SC300s.
I attempted to install a used distributor in my friends 1997 Lexus SC300 (automatic) because the original distributor's internal seal was leaking oil. After swapping both, the car wouldnt start. I checked that all was set on cylinder one including manually setting the piston to the top dead center. Still nothing. I swapped in the old functioning distributor to help rule out the recently purchased used distributor, and still no start. I installed a new cap & rotor just in case then, and still no start with either distributor. He had his mechanic friend came over, changed the spark plugs & wires, reset all to top dead center, and confirm there is spark with the newer distributor. Again, no start. Each time the car is turning over but just wont start. All harnesses are plugged in. There are no observable broken wires or damaged parts. All fuses have been inspected. We scanned the ECU and there are no codes.
We're not sure what else to consider being that we're not familiar with SC300s. My only two remaining guesses are as follows. 1: The igniter decided to crap out randomly. 2: Perhaps the alternator is somehow causing this. The reasons I mention the alternator is because the distributor leaks directly onto the alternator & my friend had this leak for months & wouldnt address it,which is why I offered to help. Also, the battery drained in the month the cars been sitting in his garage, so we installed a new one. I havent noticed any typical electrical issues that are common with alternator issues though. The only next option may be towing the car to a shop so they can dissect it. I hope to figure something out before that.
I attempted to install a used distributor in my friends 1997 Lexus SC300 (automatic) because the original distributor's internal seal was leaking oil. After swapping both, the car wouldnt start. I checked that all was set on cylinder one including manually setting the piston to the top dead center. Still nothing. I swapped in the old functioning distributor to help rule out the recently purchased used distributor, and still no start. I installed a new cap & rotor just in case then, and still no start with either distributor. He had his mechanic friend came over, changed the spark plugs & wires, reset all to top dead center, and confirm there is spark with the newer distributor. Again, no start. Each time the car is turning over but just wont start. All harnesses are plugged in. There are no observable broken wires or damaged parts. All fuses have been inspected. We scanned the ECU and there are no codes.
We're not sure what else to consider being that we're not familiar with SC300s. My only two remaining guesses are as follows. 1: The igniter decided to crap out randomly. 2: Perhaps the alternator is somehow causing this. The reasons I mention the alternator is because the distributor leaks directly onto the alternator & my friend had this leak for months & wouldnt address it,which is why I offered to help. Also, the battery drained in the month the cars been sitting in his garage, so we installed a new one. I havent noticed any typical electrical issues that are common with alternator issues though. The only next option may be towing the car to a shop so they can dissect it. I hope to figure something out before that.