1982 cfi ecm//eprom
Thread Starter
1st Gear
Joined: Aug 2025
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
1982 cfi ecm//eprom
Hello everyone. 1982 CFI ECM problem. The car cranks but has no spark. I changed the ignition control module and it started but ran terribly for a few seconds then shut off and was back to no spark. So I changed the module again and also changed the ECM with an extra one that came with the car. The car started fine and I drove it up and down the block a few times before it eventually died on me again and is back to no spark. Is this an obvious ECM problem or can I get away with just changing the EPROM? I also read about the coolant temp sensor possibly giving bad signals which can disrupt the ECM. Also the 02 sensor and MAP sensor. Should I look into these before spending the money on the ECM which I’m learning is hard to find anyway. Any help/knowledge/advice is greatly appreciated! What a headache it’s been!
Drifting
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 702
From: Baton Rouge, Louisiana, metro area
With these new Ignition Control Modules, you typically need three to find one good.
Easiest and cheapest test is to try and return that module as bad and get another one and see what happens. I don’t trust modern parts.
Easiest and cheapest test is to try and return that module as bad and get another one and see what happens. I don’t trust modern parts.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,860
Likes: 959
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
I have more confidence in an old GM/Delco module out of a junkyard distributor than brand new modules built who knows where.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,860
Likes: 959
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
Hello everyone. 1982 CFI ECM problem. The car cranks but has no spark. I changed the ignition control module and it started but ran terribly for a few seconds then shut off and was back to no spark. So I changed the module again and also changed the ECM with an extra one that came with the car. The car started fine and I drove it up and down the block a few times before it eventually died on me again and is back to no spark. Is this an obvious ECM problem or can I get away with just changing the EPROM? I also read about the coolant temp sensor possibly giving bad signals which can disrupt the ECM. Also the 02 sensor and MAP sensor. Should I look into these before spending the money on the ECM which I’m learning is hard to find anyway. Any help/knowledge/advice is greatly appreciated! What a headache it’s been!
Checking your alternator voltage would certainly be a good idea if/when you get the engine running again. GM/Delco OEM modules are designed to operate correctly up to 16v, but who knows what the operational specs are for aftermarket modules. Also, the 12v feed to the distributor should be checked for integrity. If the connection gets intermittent that can cause some possible coil winding voltage spikes and stress on the module.
Let us know what you find.
