'90 Vette Won't Run
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 57
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From: Pittsburg MO
'90 Vette Won't Run
My '90 coupe (L98 engine) won't run. I replaced the cap, rotor, center brush (the old one was broke). I replaced the fuel pump and filter. The computer only shows trouble code #32 relating to the EGR system. I checked the coil, I only showed open circuits, but the parts store checked it, said it was good. I am suspicious about this. I get spark some of the time only. I also get occasional firing in the exhaust system only. PLEASE HELP!
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
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From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
The primary of the spark coil will be low (0.5 ohms) resistance, but the secondary is moderate (6500 ohms) and constant. Use your timing light to see if you have reliable spark and spark at the right time while cranking. Pull a plug wire and bring a grounded wire near the plug wire while cranking, you should see a bright snappy spark easily 1/2 inch long. Measure the resistance of each plug wire, they should be about 5000 ohms per foot. At night with hood lights off, while cranking, look for sparks along each plug wire. Plug wires must not touch metal, check your wire looms and replace broken missing ones. A stuck open EGR valve will make for hard starting.
Last edited by jfb; Jun 18, 2008 at 12:06 AM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 57
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From: Pittsburg MO
Thanks for the advice. I cannot get the timing light to work consistently. Maybe the coil has a broken wire, causing it to read normal at one time, open at other times. O'Reilly Auto Parts has a cheap coil for $14.95. I think I will try one. The EGR valve was disconnected before the engine failed, so it should not be a factor. I will check the plug wires also.
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Savannah Georgia
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 38
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From: PHILLY PA
my 1990 wouldn`t run either,,would crank as if it wanted too...was going crazy
finally changed out all injectors,,car runs like a champ now,,not saying this is your problem,,but maybe take a resistance test of your injectors. i would call JON at fuel injector connection...1-770-888-1662 and pick his brain,,very smart guy,and great customer service,,,calls you back every time to make sure your up and running,,,i believe i paid something like $190 for 8 bosch injectors 22#,,,like to hear the outcome to your problem,,so keep posting,,,good luck
finally changed out all injectors,,car runs like a champ now,,not saying this is your problem,,but maybe take a resistance test of your injectors. i would call JON at fuel injector connection...1-770-888-1662 and pick his brain,,very smart guy,and great customer service,,,calls you back every time to make sure your up and running,,,i believe i paid something like $190 for 8 bosch injectors 22#,,,like to hear the outcome to your problem,,so keep posting,,,good luck
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 57
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From: Pittsburg MO
Update: I have now replaced the pickup coil, main coil, rotor, cap, module in the distributor. I had a trouble code #32, but it erased itself. I also noticed the radiator fan running (with the a/c in the off position) with a cold engine-of course it is cold-it won't run.
I still get very limited spark or no spark. The engine tries to start, but that's all. The battery is strong. The timing light won't flash.
The ECM obviously has problems, but can it keep the ignition from firing?
I still get very limited spark or no spark. The engine tries to start, but that's all. The battery is strong. The timing light won't flash.
The ECM obviously has problems, but can it keep the ignition from firing?
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Thread Starter
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 57
Likes: 2
From: Pittsburg MO
I replaced the ignition module, and had it tested by the auto store. I will hot wire the 12 volt connection from the battery directly to the distributor. I will check into the injectors-from the help and suggestions, I suspect them now.
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Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 57
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From: Pittsburg MO
Thanks to all of you for your suggestions. I found the problem-the fuel injectors. I have two that are almost shorted, drawing excess electric power. This has caused my ECM to react and keep the car from running.
8th Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 8
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Go with the Bosch III 22lbs injectors from Fuel injector connection.
Call or email Jon at
Phone : 770-888-1662
Email : info@fuelinjectorconnection.com
Hes a really good guy and he will help you out with the injectors.
They bosch III cost 169,69 and they are modified to fit directly into your fuelrail. and they have 3 year warranty. couldnt get any better injectors then those
Call or email Jon at
Phone : 770-888-1662
Email : info@fuelinjectorconnection.com
Hes a really good guy and he will help you out with the injectors.
They bosch III cost 169,69 and they are modified to fit directly into your fuelrail. and they have 3 year warranty. couldnt get any better injectors then those
7th Gear
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
vats
My '90 coupe (L98 engine) won't run. I replaced the cap, rotor, center brush (the old one was broke). I replaced the fuel pump and filter. The computer only shows trouble code #32 relating to the EGR system. I checked the coil, I only showed open circuits, but the parts store checked it, said it was good. I am suspicious about this. I get spark some of the time only. I also get occasional firing in the exhaust system only. PLEASE HELP!
I wonder if it started yet?
