C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

1985 code 32 problem

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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 07:28 PM
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Default 1985 code 32 problem

When I crank it after setting overnight I get check engine light 32.Ok when it runs about 5 minutes I can cut it off then start it again and the check engine light goes away.If you drive it off an on throughout the day the light stays off.What could it be?
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 07:43 PM
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The fact that the CEL comes on when cold leads to a faulty EGR temperature switch. The code is set because the switch was closed at startup. It's fairly easy to verify.

1. Clear codes by disconnecting the battery ground.
2. With the engine cold, start the engine and run for 15 seconds or until the light comes on.
3. If code 32 is present, disconnect EGR switch connector and repeat the test.
4. If there's no code, the switch is bad or wiring to the switch is shorted. If there's a code 32 it could be the ECM.
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 08:03 PM
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what about this?
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...8613_173005_0_
or this
http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050F
Which do I need?
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 09:20 PM
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The switch from Corvette Central is the right one. The switch is located at the base of the EGR valve. The EGR valve is on the center of the intake manifold under the plenum. The plenum must be removed to get access to it.

I would run the checks before replacing.
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Old Oct 13, 2013 | 10:10 PM
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Originally Posted by cumbercr
I would run the checks before replacing.


A code indicates a problem SOMEWHERE in a circuit, not just that the sensor or switch associated with that circuit is actually faulty
Could be a wiring problem , not the switch itself

See
http://www.chevythunder.com/egr_code_32.htm
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 02:49 AM
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Originally Posted by sturmmorser2000
The first one is a cold start injector thermo switch. AutoZone has had this wrong for YEARS.

The second one is the one you need.
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 02:50 AM
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Originally Posted by vetteoz


A code indicates a problem SOMEWHERE in a circuit, not just that the sensor or switch associated with that circuit is actually faulty
Could be a wiring problem , not the switch itself

See
http://www.chevythunder.com/egr_code_32.htm
Code 32 at startup indicates a problem in the EGR temperature switch or its wiring/connector. That's the only part that is tested at ignition on.
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 07:38 AM
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Originally Posted by Cliff Harris
Code 32 at startup indicates a problem in the EGR temperature switch or its wiring/connector. That's the only part that is tested at ignition on.


Which is why you run the code 32 diagnostics I linked which has tests for a ignition on code 32................
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 08:25 AM
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Code 32 on my '87 referred correctly to the single wire ceramic sensor on the heat shrouded exhaust gas pipe (the one that runs over the passenger side valve cover) leading to the EGR valve.

5 minute job to replace..

Cheers..
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 09:18 AM
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Originally Posted by exitwound
Code 32 on my '87 referred correctly to the single wire ceramic sensor on the heat shrouded exhaust gas pipe (the one that runs over the passenger side valve cover) leading to the EGR valve.

5 minute job to replace..

Cheers..
It's a 5 minute job on an 87. On an 85 the sensor is located under the plenum. There's obviously more work involved to reach it.
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 12:07 PM
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Originally Posted by cumbercr
It's a 5 minute job on an 87. On an 85 the sensor is located under the plenum. There's obviously more work involved to reach it.
Sorry, hadn't considered that. Thought all L98 layouts were the same.

Cheers..
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 12:35 PM
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Originally Posted by Cliff Harris
Code 32 at startup indicates a problem in the EGR temperature switch or its wiring/connector. That's the only part that is tested at ignition on.
The EGR temperature switch is supposed to be open when the engine is cold. When it closes it completes the diagnostic circuit by grounding it. At startup the ECM looks for a grounded circuit. If there's voltage, the ECM sets a code 32. So based on the OP's symptoms there are three possibilities.

1. Bad switch
2. Grounded switch wire
3. Bad ECM

Since this is only a startup code, it eliminates 90% of the troubleshooting tree.
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Old Oct 14, 2013 | 04:33 PM
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I found out the problem.The previous owner put new fuel injectors on it and the switch cable was under the bottom runner when he tightened it down.Stupid mother******.You cant move the cable out from under the runner.Guess i'll have to send it back to my garage.I ordered a new switch cable.
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