Hi, I have a 90 buick skylark with the 3300. the car started then died 3 times. Then it ran about 4 blocks and died again. It sounded like a fuel pump, so without troubleshttoing, I replaced the fuel pump, screen and filter.

The same thing happened, it ran for 10 minutes, then died and would only run for a few seconds and die. 100 bucks wasted. Every time I start it, it would run for a few seconds and die.

So I read a few message boards and all of them pointed to the crank sensor, 30 bucks wasted, same problem.

One more thing, it does throw up a code 42, but I think that is because it is dying, any thoughts?

So I went to a junkyard and bought the ignition control module and ECM as well. Switched them both out in several combinations, no luck.

I don't have access to a scope and would have limited knowledge anyway. I know I'm not the only person to have this problem. Somebody out there, Please help. James


(This post was edited by jpettypool on Apr 5, 2008, 4:41 PM)

Some information I left out, I did buy a fuel pressure gauge and is around 40 psi throughout the whole experience.

I put a plug on a wire and saw spark throughout too.

When it does run for a couple seconds, it runs fine, rules out timing, right?

Thanks again, James

I ran a continuity test on the 4 wires going from the ICM to the ECM. They have continunity, didn't chect to ground for fear of static damaging the electronics. Think I'll do some more wire testing.

Someone said possibly cam sensor but this model doesn't have one. James


(This post was edited by jpettypool on Apr 5, 2008, 6:24 PM)

I'm watching and don't have much to add - sorry. Have you tried priming throttle body when it's down? I don't know the spec for fuel PSI but it might be fussy??

T
Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest Boston - USA
http://www.acsource.com/

_________________________________________

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ok, so I started it and it would continue to run as long as I kept squirting starting fluid into it. so it's back to fuel. It has pressure, slightly high, maybe you are right about being picky about the pressure. Any more suggestions?

I bought a used fuel pressure regulator, same condition. Put a voltmeter on the fuel injectors and I'm seeing it stay high, when it stalls. It seems that shortly after start mode, it dies. My question is, Is there a way to force it into open mode or closed mode or even start mode to see if this may help me troubleshoot?

I'm pretty sure the signal to the injectors is stopping shortly after startup. I don't know why. I've been running through my head possible scenarios, and I'm coming up blank. I disconnected the 02 sensor and cooling sensor, trying to force open mode but haven't had any change with the start and die routine. I probably need to reset my codes by now, I'm sure I have set some off by now. Any thoughts or explinations are greatly appreciated (even if they're wrong). thanks, James

OK. I also have been reading your post with some interest. You mentioned the code 42, but dismissed it. Let's test it out to be sure it is not the problem. Here are the diagnostic steps and the wiring that goes with it. Let us know what you find. Not too much on GM vehicles.








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The long awaited ending. I took it to the shop and it turns out that one of the fuel injectors was shorted and causing the fuel injectors to shut off. Replaced just the 1 fuel injector and it's been running fine.