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no start issue after header install

Old May 28, 2021 | 11:43 PM
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Default no start issue after header install

I have a 2003 vert with a completely stock engine. My mechanic replaced the stock exhaust system with a complete longtube header system and catback. o2 sensors where put back in place, left on the left and right on the right is what my mechanic said... the car cranks but does not start... says low fuel and the check engine light is half lit not brightly lit like it should be. Its like its in limp mode or something... tried pluging in engine diagnostic meters and it does not recognize them.... checked all grounds, wires,, it is something electronic for sure so any possible ideas would be greatly appreciated. I know there are lots of sharp people in this forum so I am sure one of you have the answer. the cats were removed but o2 sensors are in... water pump was also replaced along with new tensioner. all coils were checked so just lost for words at the present moment. thanks. ed. the car is an automatic trans car.. radiator was also replaced for a larger one.
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Old May 29, 2021 | 01:09 AM
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Did he get the ground wires by the starter back on and tight?
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Old May 29, 2021 | 01:38 AM
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he said he checked all the grounds and they were tight. its strange that the tech 2 when its plugged in is not being recognized by the computer... maybe a blown fuse or something.. a strange issue for a car that has run perfect all of its life. long tube headers not really worth it. regret i did this but i need to continue since the damage is done.
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Old May 29, 2021 | 01:38 AM
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it also says low fuel.... it cranks but does not start... check engine light on dic comes on dim...not bright..
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Old May 29, 2021 | 05:34 AM
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If your mechanic can’t connect to the car with the scan tool there is a communication issue between the scan tool and cars many modules...I’m just trying to figure out which one with some exhaust work...gas gauge on E and power windows not working and water temp maxed out is a sign with the key on...tell your mechanic to watch this video...I’m not sure if he good at diagnostics but he’s going to have to access both splice packs next to the BCM and he can use a voltmeter and or a labscope to see what’s going on with the serial data line...what I’m saying is probably French to you but your mechanic may know something about this...if he has questions he can reach us here as to the procedure...the data line is either shorted to power or to ground or a module (PCM ?) is missing a power or ground...that power or ground will backfeed into the data line and cause your problems !!...that data line is pin 2 on the DLC (where he hooks up his scan tool too)...he should not see 12 volts there or ground (should read in the thousands of ohms)...where in the great state of Florida are you located ??...now that I’m thinking the PCM is grounded to the right side of the block near the starter...that could be the issue...I believe there are 3 wires there attached to the block !!




Last edited by C5 Diag; May 29, 2021 at 05:58 AM.
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Old May 29, 2021 | 05:52 AM
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Helpful post above
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Old May 29, 2021 | 06:30 AM
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The ground at the back of the block is most likely snapped or broken when jacking the engine or whatever he did to install the headers and there is no ground on the end
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Old May 29, 2021 | 07:01 AM
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Originally Posted by 2000BSME
The ground at the back of the block is most likely snapped or broken when jacking the engine or whatever he did to install the headers and there is no ground on the end
A broken ground there wouldn’t account for a “no comm”...just ask in’ !!!!
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Old May 29, 2021 | 08:06 AM
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Originally Posted by edram454
he said he checked all the grounds and they were tight. its strange that the tech 2 when its plugged in is not being recognized by the computer... maybe a blown fuse or something.. a strange issue for a car that has run perfect all of its life. long tube headers not really worth it. regret i did this but i need to continue since the damage is done.
Don’t be surprised if you start seeing trouble codes (P0133/P0153) with these long tube headers !!...you may not be out of the woods yet !!...just a heads up !!
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Old May 29, 2021 | 11:22 AM
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My guess the ground wire circled in blue is not attached

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Old May 29, 2021 | 02:13 PM
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Originally Posted by edram454
he said he checked all the grounds and they were tight. its strange that the tech 2 when its plugged in is not being recognized by the computer... maybe a blown fuse or something.. a strange issue for a car that has run perfect all of its life. long tube headers not really worth it. regret i did this but i need to continue since the damage is done.
Look at fuse 7 It reads C/LTR (20 amp). Dour your cigarette lighter work?
And this are the grounds by the starter


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Old May 29, 2021 | 02:35 PM
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I know you said all the grounds were checked. May be worth double checking. With long tube headers the air system valves (or whatever they are called) are usually removed. The bolt on the driver's side head that holds down the bracket for the air system hose also holds a ground. With the bracket removed even with that bolt tightened back down that ground can still be loose in there. Good luck.
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