Ignition Module
Team Owner
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 36,040
Likes: 4
From: All great change begins at the dinner table Ronald Reagan
My '89 ran like that once, so I decided to replace the ignition module. When I removed the distributor cap to get to the module I noticed I had previously crimped/pinched one of my spark plug wires between the cap & distributor wire. I have no idea how it ran like that, but it ran until it made a connection with the wire core.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 7,999
Likes: 14
From: Life is just one big track event. Everything before and after is prep and warm-up and cool-down laps
Cruise-In III Veteran
Cruise-In IV Veteran
St. Jude Donor '12
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,785
Likes: 957
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
Not trying to be difficult or stir anything up, just trying to have a technical discussion regarding the wiring/function of the ESC system. Would you mind if I asked what model year your car is?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,620
Likes: 206
From: Orlando FL
I’m confused. To the best of my knowledge, a 92 does not use ESC (electronic spark control). The main components that control, time and develop spark is the opti, ECM, ICM and coil. Other components and inputs will have an effect on fine tuning and adjusting timing.
There are other problems that can cause no spark like bad connections and many other factors. But starting with the basics and even codes are good starting points. There are many things can be checked with a meter during a no spark condition. The FSM is a good source of information. I would look at if the ICM gets a input from the ECM during a no spark condition. Most of these checks are easy, you just need to learn how to do it
There are other problems that can cause no spark like bad connections and many other factors. But starting with the basics and even codes are good starting points. There are many things can be checked with a meter during a no spark condition. The FSM is a good source of information. I would look at if the ICM gets a input from the ECM during a no spark condition. Most of these checks are easy, you just need to learn how to do it
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 6,130
Likes: 2
From: seattle WA
TAKE the ICM to Autozone, have them run it through at least 10 cycles...it's a FREE service they provide, the 10 cycles gets it hot, and that's where most ICMs show failure if they're going bad, and a new ICM from Autozone for my 87 was like $30. something.
And you need to pull the codes, or have Autozone pull them for you...also another FREE service they provide.
And you need to pull the codes, or have Autozone pull them for you...also another FREE service they provide.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 20,785
Likes: 957
From: I tend to be leery of any guy who doesn't own a chainsaw or a handgun.
I’m confused. To the best of my knowledge, a 92 does not use ESC (electronic spark control). The main components that control, time and develop spark is the opti, ECM, ICM and coil. Other components and inputs will have an effect on fine tuning and adjusting timing.
There are other problems that can cause no spark like bad connections and many other factors. But starting with the basics and even codes are good starting points. There are many things can be checked with a meter during a no spark condition. The FSM is a good source of information. I would look at if the ICM gets a input from the ECM during a no spark condition. Most of these checks are easy, you just need to learn how to do it
There are other problems that can cause no spark like bad connections and many other factors. But starting with the basics and even codes are good starting points. There are many things can be checked with a meter during a no spark condition. The FSM is a good source of information. I would look at if the ICM gets a input from the ECM during a no spark condition. Most of these checks are easy, you just need to learn how to do it
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 8,753
Likes: 9
From: Louisiana
You need to pull the code(s) before doing anything. The SYS light flashing means you have a stored CCM code. Have you actually tested the wiring to the ICM and Coil? I see most are telling you to replace a $150 GM part and cross your fingers. 
