1988 PONTIAC FIERO spark plugs replace

IGNITION SYSTEM 6B4-3
flash-over, which causes engine misfiring. Do not
mistake corona discharge for flash-over, or a shorted
insulator. Corona is a steady blue light appearing
around the insulator, just above the shell crimp. It is
the visible evidence of a high-tension field and has no
effect on ignition performance. Usually it can be
detected only in darkness. This discharge may repel
dust particles, leaving a clear ring on the insulator just
above the shell. This ring is sometimes mistakenly
regarded as evidence that combustion gases have blown
out between shell and insulator.
lgnition Switch
The mechanical switch is located in the steering
column on the right hand side just below the steering
wheel. The electrical switching portion of the assembly
is separate from the key and lock cylinder. However,
both are synchronized and work in conjunction with
each other through the action of the actuator rod
assembly.
For a complete explanation of the key and lock
cylinder, and the actuator rod assembly, see
STEERING, Section
38. See Section 8 for electrical
switching.
DIAGNOSIS
IGNITION SYSTEM
Spark Plugs
Worn or dirty plugs may give satisfactory
operation at idling speed, but at higher RPM they
frequently fail. Faulty plugs are indicated in a number
of ways: poor fuel economy, power loss, loss of speed,
hard starting and generally poor engine performance.
Spark plugs may also fail due to carbon fouling,
excessive gap, or a broken insulator. Fouled plugs may
be indicated by black carbon
deposits. The black deposits are usually the result of
slow-speed driving and short runs, where sufficient
engine operating temperature is seldom reached. Worn
pistons, rings, faulty ignition, over-rich carburetion
and spark plugs which are too cold will also result in
carbon deposits.
Excessive gap wear, on plugs of low mileage,
usually indicates the engine is operating at high speeds,
or loads that are consistently greater than normal, or
that a plug which is too hot is being used. Electrode
wear may also be the result of plug overheating,
causcd
by combustion gases leaking past the threads due to
insufficient torquing of the spark plug. Excessively lean
carburetion will also result in accelerated electrode
wear.
Broken insulators are usually the result of
improper installation, or carelessness when regapping
the plug. Broken upper insulators usually result from
a poor fitting wrench, or an outside blow. The cracked
insulator may not show up right away, but will as soon
as oil or moisture penetrates the crack. The crack is
usually just below the crimped part of shell and may
not be visible.
Broken lower insulators usually result from
carelessness when regapping and generally are visible.
This type of break may result from the plug operating
too "hot", which may happen in periods of high-speed
operation or under heavy loads. When regapping a
spark plug, always make the gap adjustment by
bending the ground (side) electrode. Spark plugs with
broken insulators should always be replaced.
HE1 Distributor
See Unit Repair for distributor disassembly, test
and reassembly of individual distributor components,
when the distributor is removed from the vehicle. See
On-Car Service for distributor removal and installation
and for component removal with distributor in car. See
Section 6E for
HE1 and EST diagnosis.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
IGNITION SYSTEM
Distributor Ignition
NOTICE: This procedure is generally true for
most carlines. Where procedure is different, or
where additional information is required, see
"ON-CAR SERVICE" for specific
carline.
HE1 DISTRIBUTOR
Service Precautions
1. When making compression checks, disconnect
the ignition switch feed wire at the distributor.
When disconnecting this connector,
do not use
a screwdriver or tool to release the locking tab, as
it may break.
2. No periodic lubrication is required. Engine oil
lubricates the lower bushing and an oil-filled
reservoir provides lubrication for the upper
bushing. 3.
The tachometer (TACH) terminal is next to the
ignition switch (BAT) connector on the
distributor cap.
NOTICE: The tachometer terminal must
NEVER be allowed to touch ground, as damage
to the module and/or ignition coil can result.
Some tachometers currently in use may NOT be
compatible with the High Energy Ignition System.
Consult the manufacturer of the tachometer if
questions arise.
4. Dwell adjustment is controlled by the module,
and cannot be adjusted.
5. The material used to construct the spark plug
cables is very soft. This cable will withstand more
heat and carry a higher voltage, but scuffing and
cutting become easier. The spark plug cables
must be routed correctly to prevent
chafing or
cutting. See Spark Plug Section. When removing

6EZ-B-2 5.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Problem may or may not turn "ON" the "Service Engine Soon" light, or store a code.
DO NOT use the trouble code charts in Section
"A" for intermittent problems. The fault must be
present to locate the problem. If a fault is
intermittent, use of trouble code charts may result
in replacement of good parts.
@ Most intermittent problems are caused by faulty
electrical connections or wiring. Perform
careful check of suspect circuits for:
- Poor mating of the connector halves, or
terminals, not fully seated in the connector
body (backed out).
I - Improperly formed or damaged terminals.
All connector terminals in problem circuit
should be carefully reformed to increase
contact tension.
- Poor terminal to wire connection. This
requires removing the terminal from the
connector body to check as outlined in the
Introduction to Section
"6E".
@ If a visual (physical) check does not find the
cause of the problem, the car can be driven with
a voltmeter connected to a suspected circuit or a
"Scan" tool may be used. An abnormal voltage
reading, when the problem occurs, indicates the
problem may be in that circuit. If the wiring
and connectors check OK, and a trouble code was
stored for a circuit having a sensor, except
for Codes 44 and 45, substitute a known good
sensor and recheck.
@ Loss of trouble code memory. To check,
disconnect TPS and idle engine until "Service
Engine Soon" light comes
"ON". Code 22 should
be stored, and kept in memory, when ignition is
turned "OFF" for at least 10 seconds. If not, the
ECM
is faulty.
@ An intermittent "SES" light, and no trouble
codes, may be caused by:
- Electrical system interference caused by a
defective relay, ECM driven solenoid, or switch.
They can cause a sharp electrical surge.
Normally, the problem will occur when the
faulty component is operated.
- Improper installation of electrical options, such
as lights, 2-way radios, etc.
- EST wires should be routed away from spark
plug wires, ignition system components, and
generator. Wire for CKT 453 from ECM to
ignition system should be a good ground.
- Ignition secondary shorted to ground.
- CKTs 419 ("SES" light) or 451 (Diagnostic Test)
intermittently shorted to ground.
- ECM power grounds.
HARD START
Definition: Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long
time. Does eventually run, or may start but immediately dies.
, <
@ CHECK: 4. Connect a radiator test pump to the line and
- For water contaminated fuel. apply 103 kPa (15 psi) pressure. If the
- Fuel system pressure CHART A-7. pressure will hold for 60 seconds, the check
- TPS for sticking or binding should read less than
valve is OK.
1.25 volts on a "Scan" tool. @ Check ignition system for:
- No crank signal; see CHART C-1B. - Proper output with ST-125.
- EGR operation; CHART C-7. - Worn shaft.
- Fuel System - CHART A-7. - Rare and shorted wires.
- For a faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve, - Pickup coil resistance and connections.
which would allow the fuel in the lines to drain
- Loose ignition coil connections.
back to the tank after the engine is stopped. To
- Moisture in distributor cap.
check for this condition:
- Spark plugs, wet plugs, cracks, wear,
1. Ignition "OFF".
improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy
2. Disconnect fuel line at the filter
deposits.
3. Remove the tank filler cap. @ If engine starts but then, immediately stalls,
open distributor bypass line. If engine then
starts, and runs OK, replace distributor pickup
coil.
@ Check CKT 423 (EST) for short to ground.

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 5.OL (VIN E) 6E2-B-3
SURGES AND/OR CHUGGLE
Definition: Engine power variation, under steady
throttle or cruise. Feels like the car speeds up and slows
down, with no change in the accelerator pedal.
@ Use a "Scan" tool to make sure reading of VSS
matches vehicle speedometer. See "Special
Information", Section
"6E".
e CHECK:
- For intermittent EGR at idle. See appropriate
CHART C-7.
- Ignition timing. See Emission Control
Information label.
- Inline fuel filter for dirt or restriction.
- Fuel pressure. See CHART A-7.
- Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9,
or more than
16 volts.
- TCC Operation. CHART C-8A.
@ Inspect oxygen sensor for silicon contamination
from fuel, or use of improper RTV sealant. The
sensor may have a white, powdery
coabing and
result in a high but false signal voltage (rich
exhaust indication). The ECM will then reduce
the amount of fuel delivered to the engine,
causing a severe driveability problem.
@ Remove spark plugs. Check for cracks, wear,
improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy
deposits. Also, check condition of the rest of the
ignition system.
LACK OF BOWER, SLUGGISH, OR SPONGY
Definition: Engine delivers less than expected power. Little or no
increase in speed, when accelerator pedal is pushed down part way.
@ Compare customer's car to similar unit. Make - For restricted fuel filter, contaminated fuel or
sure the customer's car has an actual problem. improper fuel pressure. See CHART A-7.
@ Remove air cleaner and check air filter for dirt, - ECM Grounds.
or for being plugged. Replace as necessary.
- EGR operation for being open, or partly open, all
If there is spray from only one injector, then, the time
- CHART C-7.
there is a malfunction in the injector assembly,
- Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9, or
or in the signal to the injector assembly.
'I'he more than 16 volts.
malfunction can be isolated, by switching the
- Engine valve timing and compression.
injector connectors.
If the problem remains with - Engine, for proper or worn camshaft. See Section
the original injector, after switching the
"6A".
connector, then the injector is defective. Replace - Transmission torque converter operation. See
the injector. If the problem moves with the
Sectionw7A".
injector connector, then the problem is an - Secondary ignition voltage.
improper signal in the injector circuits, see
- Proper operation or ESC. See Section "C5".
CHART A-3. @ Check exhaust system for restriction. See
@ CHECK: CHART B- 1.
- Ignition timing. See Emission Control
Information label.

6EZ-B-4 5.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
DEWNATION 1 SPARK KNOCK
Definition: A mild to severe ping, usually worse under acceleration. The
engine makes sharp metallic knocks that change with throttle opening.
@ CHECK for obvious overheatingproblems. - For proper transmission shift points. See Section
- Low coolant. "7".
- Loose water pump belt. - TCC operation. See CHART C-8.
- Restricted air flow to radiator, or restricted - For incorrect basic engine parts such as cam,
water flow thru radiator. heads,
pistons, etc.
- Faulty or incorrect thermostat. - Excessive oil entering combustion chamber.
- Coolant sensor, which has shifted in value. @ Remove carbon with top engine cleaner. Follow
- Correct coolant solution - should be a 50150 instructions on can.
mix of GM
#lo52753 anti-freeze coolant (or @ If there is spray from only one injector, then there
equiv.) and water. is
a malfunction in the injector assembly, or in the
@ CHECK: signal to the injector assembly. The malfunction
- For poor fuel quality, proper octane rating. can be isolated by switching the injector
- For correct PROM. connectors. If the problem remains with the
- Spark plugs for correct heat range.
original injector, after switching the connector,
- ESC system opeation. See CHART C-5.
then the injector is defective. Replace the injector.
- Ignition timing. See Vehicle Emission Control
If the problem moves with the injector connector,
Information label. then the
problem is an improper signal in the
- Fuel system for low pressure. See CHART A-7.
injector circuits. See CHART A-3.
- Check EGR svstem. - CHART C-7.
HESITATION, SAG, STUMBLE
Definition: Momentary lack of response as the accelerator is pushed down.
Can occur at all car speeds.
C'sually most severe when first trying to make the car
move, as from a stop sign.
May cause the engine to stall if severe enough.
@ Perform careful visual (physical) check, as Information" label.
described at start of Section
"B". - Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9 or
@ CHECK: more than 16 volts.
- Fuel pressure. See CHART A-7. - For open ignition system ground, CKT 453.
- Water contaminated fuel. - Canister purge system for proper operation. See
- TPS for binding or sticking.
Section "C3".
- Ignition timing. See "Emission Control - EGR valve operation, CHART C-7.
CU"F OUT, MISSES
Definition: Steady pulsation or jerking that follows engine
speed, usually more pronounced as engine load increases. The
exhaust has a steady spitting sound at idle or low speed.
@ Perform careful visual (physical) check, us
described at start of Section
"B".
@ If ignition system is suspected of causing a miss
at idle or cutting, out under load:
@ Check for missing cylinder by:
1. Disconnect IAC motor. Start engine.
Remove one spark plug wire at a time, using
insulated pliers.
2. If there is an rpm drop on all cylinders, (equal
to within 50
rpm), go to "Rough, Unstable, Or
Incorrect Idle, Or Stalling" symptom.
Reconnect
IAC motor.
3. If there is no rpm drop on one or more
cylinders, or excessive variation in drop, check
for spark, on the suspected
cylinder(s) with J
26792 (ST-1251 spark tester or equivalent. If no
spark, see Section
"6D" for "Intermittent Operation
or Miss". If there is spark, remove spark plug(s) in
these cylinders and check for:
- Cracks
- Wear
- Improper gap
- Burned electrodes
- Heavy deposits
- Perform compression check on
questionable cylinder.
@ Check wire resistance (shoulcl not exceed 30,000
ohms), also, check rotor and distributor cap.

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 5.OL (VIN E) 6E2-B-5
@ If the previous checks did not find the problem:
- Visually inspect ignition system for moisture,
dust, cracks, burns, etc. Spray plug wires with
fine water mist to check for shorts.
- Fuel System - Plugged fuel filter, water, low
pressure. See CHART A-7.
- Perform compression check.
- Valve timing.
- Remove rocker covers. Check for bent pushrods,
worn rocker arms, broken or weak valve springs,
worn camshaft lobes. Repair as necessary. See
Section
"6A".
If there is spray from only one injector, then,
there is
a malfunction in the injector assembly,
or in the signal to the injector assembly. The
malfunction can be isolated by switching the
injector connectors. If the problem remains with
the original injector, after switching the
connector, then the injector is defective. Replace
the iniector. If the
~roblem moves with the
injector connector, then, the problem is an
improper signal in the injector circuits. See
CHART A-3.
POOR FUEL ECONOMY
Definition: Fuel economy, as measured by an actual road test, is
noticeably lower than expected. Also, economy is noticeably lower than it
was on this car at one time, as previously shown by an actual road test.
@ CHECK: @ Visually (physically) check:
- Engine thermostat for faulty part (always open) - Vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper
or for wrong heat range. See Section
"6B". connections, as shown on Vehicle Emission
- Fuel Pressure. See CHART A-7. Control Information label.
@ Check owner's driving habits. - Ignition wires for cracking, hardness, and proper
- Is A/C "ON" full time (Defroster mode "ON")? connections.
- Are tires at correct pressure? e Check ignition timing. See Emission Control
- Are excessively heavy loads being carried? Information label.
- Is acceleration too much, too often? @ Remove spark plugs. Check for cracks, wear,
- Suggest driver read "Important Facts on Fuel
improper gap, burned electrodes or heavy deposits.
Economy" in owner's manual. Repair
or replace, as necessary.
@ Perform "Diagnostic Circuit Check". @ Check compression. See Section "6A".
@ Check air cleaner element (filter) for dirt or @ Check TCC for proper operation. See CHART C-8.
being plugged. Use "Scan"
tool if available.
@ Check for proper calibration of speedometer. @ Check for dragging brakes.
Suggest owner fill fuel tank and recheck fuel
economy.
@ Check for exhaust system restriction. ,
See CHART B-1.
ROUGH, UNSTABLE, OR INCORRECT IDLE, STALLING
Definition: The engine runs unevenly at idle. If bad enough, the car may
shake. Also,
the idle may vary in rpm (called "hunting"). Either condition
may be severe enough to cause stalling. Engine idles at incorrect speed.
@ CHECK: - Vacuum leaks can cause higher than normal
- Ignition timing. See Emission Control idle.
Information label.
- EGR "ONJ', while idling, will cause roughness,
- PIN switch circuit. See CHART C-1 A. stalling, and hard starting. CHART C-7.
- For injectorb) leaking. Check fuel pressure, - Battery cables and ground straps should be clean ,
CHART A-7. and secure. Erratic voltage will cause IAC to
- IAC - See CHART C-2C.
change its position, resulting in poor idle quality.
- If a sticking throttle shaft or binding linkage - IAC valve will not move, if system voltage is
causes
a high TPS voltage (open throttle
below 9, or greater than 17.8 volts.
indication), the ECM will not control idle.
- Use "Scan" tool to determine if ECM is receiving
Monitor TPS voltage. "Scan"
andlor voltmeter AlC request signal.
should read less than
1.2 volts with throttle
closed.

6E2-8-6 5.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
- MAP Sensor - Ignition "ON", engine stopped.
Compare MAP voltage with known good vehicle.
-
Voltage should be the same + 400 mV (.4 volts).
OR
Start and idle engine. Disconnect
sensor
electrical connector. If idle improves, substitute
a known good sensor and recheck.
- A/C refrigerant pressure too high. Check for
overcharge or faulty pressure switch.
- PCV valve for proper operation by placing finger
over inlet hole in valve end several times. Valve
should snap back. If not, replace valve.
Run a cylinder compression check See Section
" 6".
Inspect oxygen sensor for silicon contamination
from fuel, or use of improper RTV sealant. The
sensor will have a white, powdery coating, and
will result in a high but false signal voltage (rich
exhaust indication). The ECM will then reduce
the amount of fuel delivered to the engine,
causing a severe driveability problem.
EXCESSIVE EXHAUST EMISSIONS OR ODORS
Definition: Vehicle fails an emission test. Vehicle has excessive "rotten egg"
smell. Excessive odors do not necessarily indicate excessive emissions.
@ Perform "Diagnostic Circuit Check".
@ IF TEST SHOWS EXCESSIVE CO AND HC, (or
also has excessive odors)
@ Check items that will cause engine to run
RICH.
e Make sure engine is at normal operating
temperature.
o CHECK:
- Fuel pressure. See CHART A-7.
- Incorrect timing. See Vehicle Emission
Control Information label.
- Canister for fuel loading. See CHART C-3.
- PCV valve for being plugged, stuck or blocked
PCV hose or fuel in the crankcase.
- Spark plugs, plug wires, and ignition
components. See Section
"6D".
- Check for lead contamination of catalytic
converter (look for removal of fuel filler neck
restrictor).
- Check for properly installed fuel cap.
@ If the system is running rich, (block learn less
than
1181, refer to "Diagnostic Aids" on facing
page of Code
45.
o IF TEST SHOWS EXCESSIVE NOx:
@ Check items which cause car to run LEAN, or
to run too hot.
- EGR valve for not opening. See CHART C-7.
- Vacuum leaks. - Coolant system and coolant fan for proper
operation. See
CHART C-12.
- Remove carbon with top engine cleaner.
Follow instructions on can.
- Check ignition timing for excessive base
advance. See Emission Control Information
label.
@ If the system is running lean, (block learn greater
than
138) refer to "Diagnostic Aids" on facing
page of Code
44.
DIESELING, RUN-ON
Definition: Engine continues to run after key is turned "OFF", but runs very roughly.
Ifengine runs smoothly, check ignition switch and adjustment.
@ Check injector for leaking. Apply 12 volts to fuel Visually check injector and TBI assembly for fuel
pump test terminal to turn "ON" fuel pump and leakage.
pressurize fuel system.
BACKFIRE
Definition: Fuel ignites in intake manifold, making a loud popping noise.
@ CHECK: - For faulty spark plugs and/or plug wires or
- EGR operation for being open all the time. See
hoots.
CHART C-7. - Faulty A.I.R. check valve.
- Output voltage of ignition coil. @ Perform a compression check - look for sticking or
- For crossfire between spark plugs (distributor leaking valves.
cap, spark plug wires, and proper routing' of plug
- For proper valve timing.
wires).
- Broken or worn valve train parts.
- Engine timing - See Emission Control
Information label.

6E3-B-2 2.8L (VIN 5) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Problem may or may not turn "ON" the "Service Engine SoonJ' light, or store a code.
DO NOT use the trouble code charts in Section
"A" for intermittent problems. The fault must be
present to locate the problem. If a fault is
intermittent, use of trouble code charts may result
in replacement of good parts.
@ Most intermittent problems are caused by
faulty electrical connections or wiring. Perform
careful check as described at start of Section
"B". Check for:
@ Poor mating of the connector halves, or
terminals not fully seated in the connector
body (backed out).
@ Improperly formed or damaged terminals.
All connector terminals in problem circuit
should be carefully reformed to increase
contact tension.
@ Poor terminal to wire connection. This
requires removing the terminal from the
connector body to check. See "Introduction"
to Section
"6E".
@ If a visual check does not find the cause of the
problem, the car can be driven with a voltmeter
connected to a suspected circuit. A "Scan" tool
can also be used for monitoring input signals to
the ECM to help detect intermittent conditions.
An abnormal voltage, or "Scan" reading, when
the problem occurs, indicates the problem may
be in that circuit. If the wiring and connectors
check OK and a trouble code was stored for a
circuit having a sensor, except for Codes
43, 44,
and 45, substitute a known good sensor and
recheck. An
intermittent "Service Engine Soon" light
with no stored code may be caused by:
@ Ignition coil shorted to ground and arcing at
spark plug wires or plugs.
@ "Service Engine Soon" light wire to ECM
shorted to ground. (CKT 419).
@ Diagnostic "Test" terminal wire to ECM,
shorted to
ground.(CKT 451)
@ ECM power grounds. See ECM wiring
diagrams.
@ Loss of trouble code memory. To check,
disconnect TPS and idle engine until "Service
Engine Soon" light comes "ON". Code
22 should
be stored, and kept in memory when ignition is
turned "OFF". If not, the ECM is faulty.
@ Check for an electrical system interference
caused by a defective relay, ECM driven
solenoid, or switch. They can cause
a sharp
electrical surge. Normally, the problem will
occur when the faulty component is operated.
@ Check for improper installation of electrical
options, such as lights, 2-way radios, etc.
@ EST wires should be kept away from spark plug
wires, distributor wires, distributor housing,
coil, and generator. Wire from ECM to
distributor (CKT
453) should be a good
connection.
@ Check for open diode across A/C compressor
clutch, and for other open diodes (see wiring
diagrams).
HARD START
Definition: Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long
time. Does eventually run, or may start hut immediately dies.
@ Perform careful check as described at start of -
Section "B".
@ Make sure driver is using correct starting
procedure.
@ CHECK:
- TPS for sticking or binding or a high TPS
voltage with the throttle closed (should read
less than
,700 volts).
- High resistance in coolant sensor circuit or
sensor itself. See Code 15 chart or with
a.
"Scan" tool compare coolant temperature with
ambient temperature on
a cold engine. 8
- Fuel pressure CHART A-7. Water contaminated
fuel.
EGR operation. Be sure valve seats properly and
is not staying open. See CHART C-7.
Both injector fuses (visually inspect).
Ignition system
- Check distributor for:
Proper output with ST-125.
Worn shaft.
Bare and shorted wires.
Pickup coil resistance and connections.
Loose ignition coil ground.
Moisture in distributor cap.
If problem exists in cold weather, check cold start
valve. See CHART A-9.

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 2.8L (VIN S) 6E3-B-3
e A faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve will @ If engine starts but then immediately stalls,
allow the fuel in the lines to drain back to the open
distributor by-pass line. If engine then
tank after the engine is stopped. To check for starts
and runs OK, replace pickup coil.
this condition:
@ If engine starts and stalls, disconnect MAF
Perform Fuel System Diagnosis, CHART A-7. sensor. If engine then runs and sensor
@ Remove spark plugs. Check for wet plugs, connections are OK, replace the sensor.
cracks, wear, improper gap, burned
f lectrodes,
or heavy deposits. Repair or replace as
necessary.
HESITATION, SAG, STUMBLE
Definition: Momentary lack of response as the accelerator is pushed down. Can
occur at all car speeds.
Usually most severe when first trying to make the car move, as
from a stop sign. May cause the engine to stall if severe enough.
Perform careful visual check as described at
start of Section
"B".
a CHECK:
- Fuel pressure. See CHART A-7. Also check for
water contaminated fuel.
- Air leaks at air duct between MAF sensor and
throttle body.
- Spark plugs for being fouled or faulty wiring.
- PROM (2.8L) or MEM-CAL (5.OL & 5.7L)
number. Also check service bulletins for latest
MEM-CAL or PROM.
- TPS for binding or sticking. Voltage should
increase at a steady rate as throttle is moved
toward WOT.
- Ignition timing. See Emission Control
Information label.
- Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9
or more than 16 volts.
- HE1 ground, CKT 453.
- Canister purge system for proper operation.
See CHART C-3.
- EGR - See CHART C-7.
@ Perform injector balance test CHART C-2A.
SURGES AND/OR CHUGGLE
Definition: Engine power variation under steady
throttle or cruise. Feels like the car speeds up and
slows down with no change in the accelerator pedal.
Be sure driver understands transmission
converter clutch and
A/C compressor operation
in Owner's Manual.
e Perform careful visual inspection as described
at start of Section
"B".
CHECK:
- TCC and 4th gear switch operation - See
CHART C-8A.
- Loose or leaking air duct between MAF sensor
and throttle body.
- Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9
or more than 16 volts.
- EGR - There should be no EGR at idle. See
CHART C-7. Also check for plugged EGR
solenoid filter.
- Vacuum lines for kinks or leaks.
- Ignition timing. See Emission Control
Information label.
- In-line fuel filter. Replace ifdirty or plugged.
- Fuel pressure while condition exists. See
CHART A-7.
@ Inspect oxygen sensor for silicone contamination
from fuel, or use of improper RTV sealant. The
sensor may have a white, powdery coating and
result in a high but false signal voltage (rich
exhaust indication). The ECM will then reduce
the amount of fuel delivered to the engine,
causing a severe driveability problem.
@ Remove spark plugs. Check for cracks, wear,
improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy
deposits. Also check condition of distributor cap,
rotor, and spark plug wires.
@ To help determine if the condition is caused by a
rich or lean system, the car should be driven at
the speed of the complaint. Monitoring block
learn at the complaint speed will help identify the
cause of the problem. If the system is runnig lean
(block learn greater than
138), refer to
"Diagnostic Aids" on
facing page of Code 44. If
the system is running rich (block learn less than
118), refer to "Diagnostic Aids" on facing page of
Code 45.