SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE ENGINE CRANK BUT WON'T RUN

SERVICE MANUAL UPDATE - ENGINE "CRANKS BUT WON'T RUN" - REVISED CHART

VEHICLES AFFECTED: ALL 1987-1989 "A" AND "N" CARS WITH 2.5L ----------------- (VIN CODE R OR U) ENGINES

This bulletin serves to revise Chart A-3 (Page 2 of 3), "Cranks But Won't Run", on 1987 through 1989 "N" Carline (VIN U) and "A" Carline (VIN R) with 2.5L engine.

When measuring crankshaft sensor resistance, as described in "Test Description" step number 5, make certain the crankshaft sensor is at room temperature. High resistance readings could result if the crankshaft sensor is warmer than room temperature.

Step number 6 has been added to the "Test Description" which recommends replacing the ignition module and the crankshaft sensor. Replacement of the crankshaft sensor is necessary (especially in intermittent cases of "Cranks But Won't Run") since it is difficult to detect an intermittent condition through normal testing procedures.

CHART A-3 (Page 2 of 3) ENGINE CRANKS BUT WON'T RUN

Circuit Description:

A magnetic crank sensor is used to determine engine crankshaft position, much the same way as the pick-up coil did in HEI type systems. The sensor is mounted in the block, near a slotted wheel on the crankshaft. The rotation of the wheel creates a flux change in the sensor, which produces a voltage signal. The DIS ignition Model processes this signal and creates the reference pulses needed by the ECM to trigger the correct coil at the correct time.

If the "Scan" tool did not indicate cranking rpm, and there is no spark present at the plugs, the problem lies in the direct ignition system or the power and ground supplies to the module.

Test Description: Numbers below refer to circled numbers on the diagnostic ----------------- chart.

1. The direct ignition system uses two plugs and wires to complete the circuit of each coil. The other spark plug wire in the circuit must be left connected to create a spark.

2. This test will determine if the l2 volt supply and a good ground is available at the DIS ignition module.

3. This test will determine if the ignition module is not generating the reference pulse, or if the wiring or ECM are at fault. By touching and removing a test light to 12 volts on CKT 430, a reference pulse should be generated, If rpm is indicated, the ECM and wiring are OK.

4. This test will determine if the ignition module is not triggering the problem coil, or if the tested coil is at fault. This test could also be performed by substituting a known good coil. The secondary coil winding can be checked with a DVM. There should be 5,000 to 10,000 ohms across the coil towers. There should not be any continuity from either coil tower to ground.

5. Checks for continuity of the crank sensor and connections. Also cheeks sensor magnetism.

6. An intermittent problem with the crank sensor could cause an intermittent "Cranks But Won't Run". Therefore, as a precaution, the crank sensor should be replaced as well.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.