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'95 Firebird Starting Problems


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WBB
New User

Apr 25, 2012, 6:53 PM

Post #1 of 2 (2775 views)
'95 Firebird Starting Problems Sign In

Year of vehicle: 1995
Make of vehicle: Pontiac
Model of vehicle: Firebird
Engine size: V6 3.4L
Mileage/Kilometers: 198,000 miles

My '95 Firebird has an odd problem that happens while starting. Usually, it starts very quickly and easily but sometimes the engine/starter hesitates, making a slow "whump, whump" sound a few times before continuing to start like normal.

It recently backfired (through the intake, I believe the mechanic said) while starting and blew out its PCV value plus a small hose on the top of the engine. A mechanic replaced the valve, hose, and ignition control module. It hasn't backfired again, but the starting problems haven't stopped either.

It has relatively new plug wires and coil packs.

I've been told that the cause could be that its timing chain is off a bit, but I'm hoping to find something easy to try before having someone take the whole thing apart to check that.

Here's a video I managed to capture of its starting problem. This is a very minor example, as usually it hesitates 3 or 4 times instead of just once.
http://www.youtube.com/...amp;feature=youtu.be


Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Discretesignals profile image

Apr 26, 2012, 3:35 PM

Post #2 of 2 (2687 views)
Re: '95 Firebird Starting Problems Sign In

You should start by having the battery tested. Also inspect the cables and battery bolts at the battery itself.

If those check good, do a voltage drop test on the battery cables while cranking the engine to confirm you have a good connection and the cables don't have excessive resistance in them. Shouldn't see more than .5 volt on each cable.

If all that checks out, your going to have to see how much amperage the starter is using. If you have a delco starter they usually pull around 45-95 amps freewheel testing them. Most part stores have the equipment to test them if you don't have an amp clamp. If the starter is worn or binding it will use a lot more current. Heavy weight oil can also cause the starter to drag too.

If you think think the timing is too advanced for some odd reason, disconnect the connector from the coil pack and see if your slow crank goes away.





Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.

(This post was edited by Discretesignals on Apr 26, 2012, 3:43 PM)






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