Just for knowing sake: Why wouldn't it start up?

[suki243]

Hey guys, there's nothing wrong with the car but I just want to know for general knowledge...
When you turn the key and the starter turns, what would cause the engine to not fire?
I know there could be a few reasons why.

For example, I had just finished wiring my car yesterday, and it had been about 2 months since the last time i started it, and it took a few bumps of the ignition as well as a few good pumps of the accelerator before it started up. and when it did start up it sputtered, almost died but then continued going and then ran strong.

I can understand that happening when you don't start it for a few months but, it has also happened after I parked it and then tried starting it about 10 minutes later.

I guess what I'm asking is what is the steps the engine has to take to start up?
gas in the pistons, spark, and starter to turn?

 

[rbohm]

it sounds like you didnt have enough fuel in the fuel bowl. often times fuel evaporates fairly quickly in the higher heat of summer, and you are stuck with a reduced amount of fuel, thus when you pump the throttle a couple of times, you lose a good part of what is left in the bowl, and it takes a few second for the fuel pump to replenish the fuel bowl. you can eliminate this with an electric pump. turn the ignition on and wait a couple of seconds before you crank the motor over. the problem should be gone.