Festi overheated, won't start now. Need help!!!

[zackf33]

So I let my friend borrow my festiva for a couple weeks. During this time, the car overheated. The engine temp gauge was buried in the red (hot) for a few minutes then it died and wouldn't start again. It's a 91 automatic if this matters. It tries to start, it cranks but never fires. I did spray starting fluid in the intake and it would fire, but just as soon as I let off the key, it dies. I haven't checked the plugs yet. Just trying to get some opinions on what you guys may think it could be. Hoping for the best, but I can't expect any great news. If there is any addition info needed, I can try to provide that. Thanks.


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[robbylockisme]

Doesn't sound like a good friend.

[robbylockisme]

Mine recently had the same issue. It overheated and shut down. Once it cooled off, it was hard to start. I am now looking for a new head and head gasket.

[WmWatt]

If it cranks okay you can check compression.

[harpon]

Yeah- I think old head gaskets like to blow when severely overheated- drive it like a precious fine old thing and not like a hot rod in a new car commercial from hell.

Worse still- a valve head maybe sheered off