Timing Question

[pittsburghsho]

On my 92, I replaced the water pump, cps, cid, fuel pump, plugs, wires and timing belt last year and now it is acting stupid again. Sometimes the car starts and runs fine and other times it won't start at all. When it does start it backfires a little bit. Does the computer control all of the timing from when you first try to start the car or does it only take control after the car is started? Would a faulty computer give a code? I'm all out of reasons as to why the car does not start sometimes.

 

[sdpatt]

If it is backfiring while cranking then it is very likely that the CID (cam) sensor is failing. Until the EEC knows where the number one cylinder is, there is no spark - unless there is no signal from the CID sensor - then it just guesses and there is only a 1 in 6 chance that it guesses correctly on each revolution.

My engine is still on the original CID sensor (knock on wood). Since this one can be swapped without removing anything else (except the power steering fluid reservoir), why not leave the good one in until it does fail? If it ever does. I guess I don't see the need for the preventative maintenance replacement o fthis sensor since it won't leave you stranded, just with an ugly starting procedure.

 

[pittsburghsho]

I just went out and tried to start it. There is no backfire when cranking. It did not start so I waited a few minutes and tried again and it started on the first crank. It only started to backfire after it warmed up a little bit( 3-4 minutes). I shut it off and tried to immediately start it again and it would not start, so I kept trying about every 10 seconds and after 4 tries it started up fine and started popping about 20 seconds after it started. I'm pretty confused right now, I think i'll have a couple MGD's and try again tomorrow.

 

[RStalveyARFF]

Scott, you think it could have anything to do with the spout connector?

 

[sdpatt]

With the SPOUT plug out the only effect would be to default the ignition timing to 10 degrees before TDC. That would limit power, but it certainly wouldn't cause a backfire.

You may want to check the ground path to the DIS module. Check the front three plug well sfor oil or water. Have you washed your engine lately? You haven't mentioned any CHECK ENGINE lights. Have there been any?

Scott

 

[pittsburghsho]

I had a check engine light about a month ago. I checked it out and there were 2 continuous codes in the computer. 542 - secondary fuel pump and I replaced my pump a couple of weeks ago after the check engine light - so I think that one is fixed. 172 HEGO sensor indicates system lean (RH) - I have no idea what a hego is or how to fix it. If anyone knows what this is please feel free to enlighten me. hehe

ps. sdpatt - I haven't washed my engine in about 2 years - maybe I should
And the plugs were replaced last year and I checked them today and no oil or anything in the plug wells. How would I check ground on the DIS?

Thanks

Max

 

[pittsburghsho]

I just did a search on HEGO and it is my o2 sensors. I have never replaced them. maybe that is why the car is only running like crap when the car is up to normal temp. That still doesn't explain why it won't start sometimes, I think my car just hates me. Anyone want to buy a 92 sho with 113000 miles on it?

<small>[ April 06, 2002, 03:56 PM: Message edited by: pittsburghsho ]</small>

 

[sdpatt]

pittsburghsho:
I had a check engine light about a month ago. I checked it out and there were 2 continuous codes in the computer. 542 - secondary fuel pump and I replaced my pump a couple of weeks ago after the check engine light - so I think that one is fixed. 172 HEGO sensor indicates system lean (RH) - I have no idea what a hego is or how to fix it. If anyone knows what this is please feel free to enlighten me. hehe

ps. sdpatt - I haven't washed my engine in about 2 years - maybe I should
And the plugs were replaced last year and I checked them today and no oil or anything in the plug wells. How would I check ground on the DIS?

Thanks

Max

The 542 code is generated when you stall the engine. It does not mean that anything is wrong with the fuel pump. The 172 is the right hand (rear bank) sensor and if it alone was showing lean, it was due to be replaced. Since they are both probably the originals, they should both be replaced. For the 3.0L, the best part is the Bosch 13942 from AutoZone or AutoZone.com for $33.99 ea. On the 3.0L, you can replace the sensors with a Crescent wrench, but an O2 sensor socket still makes for easier work.
Please DO NOT wash your engine. Water on SHO engine = BAD.

The ground path to the DIS (distributorless ignition system) module on the intake's crossover tube onthe passenger side, is through the ground strap to top mounting bolt on the passenger side, rear intake bracket, then through the two 12mm bolts that hold the crossover tube to the front and rear plenums, then through the four 5.5mm (7/32") bolts that hold the DIS module to the crossover tube.

Scott