89 will not run

[Bob T.]

the first problem is hard to start, takes several tries to get car to run (as many as ten)and idle, when it runs it will quit as soon as the gas pedal is touched, this happens several times until it will finally run and be drivable

turn the car off and it will go thru the same thing, sometimes it will idle smoothly and the next time it will idle with about a 500 rpm speed varience, from barely running to about 1000 rpm, touch the gas and it will quit running

when it will run and respond to the gas pedal it runs well, no miss, no response problem, seems to have fuel

acts like it is not getting fuel to the motor, but then will take off and run
after many tries?????????

[John D.]

Re: 89 will not run

Don't forget the oxygen sensor among a list of others. My 84 had a miss that no one could fix. Put 100 parts on it and still ran like crap. New Oxy sensor and it ran like new. John

[Michael H.]

Re: 89 will not run

Same exact problem with my 89 Bob. Only problem is, it comes and goes. Runs perfect for a week or two, then begins it's ordeal for the next several hours or even a day. Never happens when anywhere near anyone that knows how to diagnose these problems. I have the GM shop manual but there's no mention of such a problem. Hope someone that DOES know can help.

[Wayne W.]

Re: 89 will not run

There could be many things that cause this type symptom, but just as a lark, unplug the mass air flow sensor. If it runs relatively well, you have found your problem.

[Michael H.]

Re: 89 will not run

Thanks Wayne. If I remember correctly, that was one of the things that was done some time ago but I don't remember what the results were. Still learning about all these new contraptions. Sure isn't anything like my old Rochester FI units.

[Joe C.]

Did You Short A-B Terminals On ALCL........

......and check for any codes that have been set? Do you have the shop manual? Does the ECM go into "closed loop" mode as it should, once the O2 sensor reaches op temp?

Joe

[Jim T.]

Re: 89 will not run

Is the fuel filter the original? On my fuel injected C4's I always turn on the key and listen for the fuel pump relay under the hood to stop the fuel pump from building up the fuel pressure. Then I crank the engine, always fires up. Just getting in the car and turning the key to start works the starter until fuel pressure is built up. Are you getting any check engine lights? Do you know how to check and read the check engine codes?