I have a 97 with 180,000 on the dash and sometime when i crank it act like it don't want to start not like the starter is going out but like the motor don't want to catch. How can you tell when the timing belt needs to be changed. Also when it act like that i can cut the car off and attempt to start it again and it fire right up. Now i had the plugs and wires replaced on it not even a month ago.

 

LOL! Your LS-1 engine does not use a timing belt. It has a timing chain. That said, with 180K on the clock, it is most likely pretty much worn out. Replacement is not that straight forward but, not unlike any other timing chain driven V8 engine. Its an LS1 so, you have to get a service manual and learn all the different steps that are different than other earlier GM V8s

Ive been around C5s for a LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNNNNNNGGGGGG time and see this issue quite frequently.

I here you thinking, Well,, STOP beating around the bush and spit out the answer.

Its not that easy BUT, I will try to assist you into doing some self troubleshooting and help you ELIMINATE the things that is/are NOT the issue to prevent you from replacing stuff that wont fix the issue.

First and foremost, your C5 will NOT function properly on a weak or not properly functioning battery. Fully charge the battery and take it to an autoparts store and have it fully tested for CCA and Reserve Capacity. If the battery isn't up to SPEC, REPLACE IT!

IGNITION SWITCH. The C5 ignition switches can output lower than required battery voltage to each module because the 5 contacts inside them get burnt / damaged with age. Some electronic modules have TWO powers. Battery HOT and Battery from the IGNITION SWITCH (Hot in ON and Start)

If the "Hot in ON and Start" voltage is LOW because of a damaged ignition switch, the car will act as you describe.

Here is a post to look at:

- C5 ignition Switch repair - http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...ch-repair.html <http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-tech/1951626-c5-ignition-switch-repair.html>

 

Thanks i will try those steps out and you right i was referring to the timing period

 

if you know how to check for proper fuel rail pressure check that, sounds like fuel pump failing

 

Thanks i will get my mechanic to check the fuel pressure for me thanks