98 Safari just died. Cranks but will not start

[motoboy5207]

My 98 Safari was running fine while out the other day and then it was like someone flipped a switch. The thing just died. Would crank just fine but does not even sputter. Had to get towed home. I have since determined all of this. I am getting spark up to plugs. While plug was out I checked compression just to ease my mind, that was just fine. I also changed fuel filter and then checked pressure at fuel rail. Fuel Press. is approx. 60-65 psi. that should be fine. No blown fuses either. The only codes I am getting are of course the slipping tranny code P1870 and also P0420 Catylyst System Efficiency below threshhold Bank one. I am now at a loss. Wondering if I could have a computer problem or some sort of Fuel Injection issue. I should add that last summer I replaced all plugs, distributor and cap. Had a severly worn gear on distributor. Have nice blue spark at on plugs at end of leads. Also tried starting fluid and nothing. Sure is strange. Any help would be appreciated.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

Does it maintain at least 52 psi fuel pressure while cranking?

[motoboy5207]

Yes it does. Talked to a mechanic today, he is thinking I might have an issue with timing somehow. Maybe chain slipped or something like that. With all that I have and with starting fluid I should at least get some kind of response while cranking but nothing.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

Before taking to a mechanic for a possible timing issue, can you rotate the engine so you can see that the rotor is pointed to #1 cylinder when it's supposed to? I find it hard to believe the timing chain slipped. Check both ECM fuses as well.

[cengster]

Same thing happened to my 99. Finally took distributor cap off and found white residue inside. Think it was salt reside, cleaned it up and started right up! The salt was trapping moisture.

[motoboy5207]

Going to try checking the timing position tomorrow and as far as distributor cap issue it looked ok when I had it off but I will try cleaning it up.
Thanks