moisture problem???

[MVSHO]

The following has happened a few times since I bought the car (1 month ago):

Car starts fine and runs good for a few minutes (sometimes 5-10 mins.) Then, all of a sudden, will start bucking, have no power, tack drops to zero, check engine light comes on. I turn the car off, let it sit a couple minutes, it takes a few turns to start, then runs perfect. I took it to a mechanic the first time it happened and he checked the codes and came up with nothing. He said it might be moisture getting in to a connection or sensor. Car does sit outside, unfortunately. Any info would be helpful.

 

[projectSHO89]

Unscrew the gas cap, leave it open and test it again. If the car then does not die, replace the gascap.

If that doesn't make any difference, you will need to monitor fuel pressure and spark simultaneously to see which one is being lost.

Steve

<small>[ June 27, 2003, 02:59 PM: Message edited by: projectSHO89 ]</small>

 

[svtC_and_SHO_Owner]

sounds like a CPS, crank positon sensor, does the tac move when you try to start it? if it stays at 0 then my guess is the cps. meaning you water pump might have a leak. does the car go though much water?

 

[sdpatt]

The CPS can fail without a water pump leak and usually does. Check the codes yourself per the links in my signature. Just because someone else said there weren't any codes doesn't mean there aren't any. The condition sounds like either a crankshaft position sensor (CPS, CKP or per the code descriptions, PIP) or cylinder identification sensor (CID).

There could also be a loose electical connection or one degraded by corrosion from moisture. You can do the "wiggle test" with the engine idling to see if any of the connections are causing the problem.

 

[masho95]

You have a failing CMP sensor (Camshaft Position Sensor). Common problems with the sensor are exactly like the ones you described, mainly the bucking and the tach going to zero. Also if the check engine light came on it means there IS a code stored in the computer, no matter what the mechanic said. Check out www.shotimes.com under the maintance section to learn how to pull the codes yourself and see what you get.

 

[MVSHO]

Thanks for the responses. This only rarely happens, maybe 5 times since i got the car 6 weeks ago. Ran great this weekend, even seemed to run cooler than normal the last couple days for whatever reason. So, i will check for a loose connection somewhere then take the car in soon to have the diagnostics run. Could someone tell/show me where these sensors are located. I am new to this whole ballgame. Thanks

 

[sdpatt]

We are trying to teach you how to check the engine diagnostic codes yourself and save the $75-$90 that shops charge just to read the codes. Do yourself a great big favor and click on the links at the bottom of my signature. Once learned, it is an amazingly simple process to install the jumper, turn the key and count the flashes.