Engine will not start. Engine cranks normally

It really sounds like the electrical connection to the fuel tank was disturbed. I'm pretty sure the fuel gauge and pump share the same connector, possibly the ground wire was knocked off. You could lean under and try and get a look for something loose, but unfortunately you have to drop the tank to get at the connector itself. I would have someone lean under the back and listen for the hum of the pump. It should run for two seconds when you first turn on the ignition, and then you have to shut it off for about ten seconds before you try it again. If you don't hear the pump run, you know where to start digging.

Hi pofcijac,

This may take several steps. The puddle was clearly the cause, and the fuel gauge problem points toward either a short in the wiring or the sensor. You may also have water in the fuel (if it got into the tank, or the fuel pump isn't getting power, or you aren't getting any spark. (Just a thought - how deep was the puddle - - is it possible you have a tank full of water, throwing the gauge sensor off?)

You should be able to turn the key to "On" and listen for the fuel pump running for 3-5 seconds after turning the key - - it's a quiet hum, should be audible unless there's a lot of background noise, esp. if your car door is open (the pump is likely inside the gas tank). If the pump is running, try pulling a spark plug and cranking. If you can smell fuel vapor getting pumped out of the port while cranking, you are getting fuel (but maybe contaminated). You can also check for spark at the same time - put it into a plastic coffee can or the like (so it's in the dark), and watch for a spark while cranking. You'll need to check all plugs for spark, and should also examine the plug wires and distributor for signs of damage, arcing or moisture.

If you have good spark, good fuel pump, and fuel vapor in the cylinder, you might try pulling the fuel line output at the fuel filter (change the filter while you're at it, may also be plugged or contaminated) and using the Key-ON trick above, pump some gas from the tank into another container (recommend clear glass or petroleum-rated plastic) and look for contamination (water or dirt). If so, you'll need to drain/siphon the tank, drop it and clean it out or replace it. If your fuel pump is bad, you'll be doing this anyway.

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Jon