C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

[Michael H.]

So, Last week, I started having a problem with my new (to me anyway) 89. The starter refused to function. Typical starter solenoid or brush problem, I thought, because turning the key to start would have no effect and wouldn't even dim the lights. No click, no nothing. An hour later, it started normally. For the next few days, the problem came and went at random so I knew it was more than just a starter problem. Learning as I go, I've come to the conclusion that the problem may be the anti theft key and ignition switch system. I've tried to use the spare second ignition key thinking possibly the chip in the original key was defective but still have the same problem. If it refuses to crank, waiting the required two to four minutes for the system to reset usually works and the car starts. The worst part of the problem is the fact that every time I even get near the car with a test light and ohmeter, the problem vanishes so there's nothing to test. I've eliminated all of the simple things like neutral safety switch etc etc.

The kid down the street told me this was quite common and he usually eliminates the ignition switch anti theft system by installing a resister, the same valus as one of the original keys, into that circuit. Anyone have any experience with this??

I like my old midyear cars more and more every day. THANKS,

Michael

[Wayne W.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

Sounds like your diagnosis is correct. It is a common problem. You can disable it by inserting a resistor. Some companies sell this as a kit. Or you can change out the switch, which would give you new contacts for the electrical. Either the key pill or the contacts are not making connection.

[Michael H.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

Thanks Wayne. I looked in the service manual and it looks like the I.P. and center instruments have to be removed (no idea why) just to change the ignition switch so I'm leaning towards installing the jumper instead. Also, GM wants over $100. just for the lock cylinder. I'll try to find the company that makes the jumper kit and hope they probide instructions with it.

These cars sure are fun to drive but definitely not worth all the hassle of trying to work on them. Can't wait till the 66 is back on the road.

Michael

[Jim T.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

Michael I have seen some people with a mass of stuff on their key rings hanging from the ignition switch. This may have contributed to the problem you are having.

[William C.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

Michael, if the VATS system chscks out according to the service manual, there was a service bulletin regarding paint on the cranking motor creating a problem with the ground circuit causing the problem you noted. The fix is remove the ground wire at the starter, clean the paint off the surface and reattach. Might be worth a try...

[Clem Z.]

send me your email address

and i will scan you a article on how to bypass the VATS

[Michael H.]

Thanks Clem, it's on the way...

That sounds like exactly what I need on this. I've pretty much decided I'm not going to completely disassemble the dash and steering column just for this switch problem. Thanks.

Michael

[Clem Z.]

gone!!! on its way *NM*

[Michael H.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

Thanks Bill. It's now looking more and more like a key pill or switch problem but it would be a good idea for me to check out the paint problem on the starter also. This is quite challenging, fun almost, especially for me because I'm definitely no electronics wizzard. Thanks

Michael

[Chuck S.]

Aww, Michael, If You're Like Me...

Once you get this little VATS problem fixed, your soft, spoiled, aging backside will demand the C4 for any rides exceeding an hour or two.

Besides, compared to your midyear, the 89 will perform like an alien spacecraft(right angle turns at speed, disappears instantly). It'll probably outrun your midyear with the AC blowing cold and the Bose blowing hot.

[Chuck S.]

Bose Classical Listening Selections...

For easy listening pleasure while cruising looking for Ricers playing rapp or hip-hop (crank it up):

Rolling Stones: Honky-Tonk Woman
AC-DC: Thunderstruck
KISS: I...Want To Rock and Roll...All Night (Can't remember the title)

[Michael H.]

Hate to admit this but..........

I REALLY do like this car. With the exception of a few mandatory stops, I could drive this thing all the way to the west coast and back and never get tired of it. And, get nearly 25 MPG or more on the trip! I feel the same way that I did when I bought a new 64 in 64. I was in that car every chance I had and the feeling is the same with this 89.

The 66 425 HP car will probably be with me till the end but, as you said, these old cars are really only fun for a while, especially here in the Florida heat.

Now, if I could just get the Delco Bose to work properly....

[Michael H.]

Re: Bose Classical Listening Selections...

Yep, and a little Jim Morrison, Pink Floyd and several more that make my age obvious to all who read this. Yea, I'm a geezer but still love to crank the tunes when alone in the car.

That's ok, everything seems to be coming full circle now. The kids are wearing bell bottom pants again, in to hot rodding and protesting just like in the 60's. And THEY think THEY started it! Soon, another "Woodstock 69"? Anti anything protests and sit-ins. Ah, those were the days! (I sound like my father now)

[Patrick H.]

Re: C4 Electronic Gizmos and No Start

In addition, make sure that the pellet in your key is clean. I've heard that the white "gum" erasers work well for this, but even any pink pencil eraser might do. Try some rubbing alcohol too. Clean the exposed metal portion on each side of the pellet.

Next time you go out to the car after having cleaned the key pellet, run the key in and out of the steering column lock cylinder several times. Then try it. See how long it takes before the problem reappears - I'd be interested to find out. I've had it work on a couple of local cars which hadn't been used in a while, including my dad's 92.

Patrick

PS - if you think an 89 is nice, try a C5.

[Clem Z.]

if you think a C-4 is great

get into a C-5 for the suprise of your life. still waiting for my C-6 to show up at the dealers as it was to be build last week.