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1988 Olsdmobile wouldn't start
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greenhornet
New User
Aug 6, 2008, 2:16 PM
Post #1 of 3
(1222 views)
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1988 Olsdmobile wouldn't start
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1988 Oldsmobile wouldn't start. It cranked fine and tried to start but wouldn't keep running. So I tried pumping the gas pedal, which caused it to try a little harder to start but still no go. Tow truck driver could not get it to start either. So towed it to a mechanic, and when he tried to start it it started right up! He didn't know what was wrong with it but suggested a faulty cam sensor. Drove home 30 miles with no problem. Starts fine now. But I don't trust it anymore Any ideas why wouldn't it start?
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DanD
Veteran
/ Moderator
Aug 7, 2008, 5:29 AM
Post #2 of 3
(1211 views)
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Re: 1988 Olsdmobile wouldn't start
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This happens to us from time too time, here at the shop; the vehicle won’t start for the customer; gets towed in and then the thing starts for us.
No codes set in the computer, sensor(s) data on the scanner looks normal and the fuel pump is producing the proper pressures; it’s like looking at a light bulb, waiting for it to burn out.
I believe this happens due the ride on the back of the tow truck; no one’s fault but the vehicle being bounced down the road, causing vibrations and what is called road shock from hitting bumps; causing a bad connection, a sensor or fuel pump, ready to fail; to come back to life; at least for a while?
What to do; all I can suggest is driving it? If the problem is not there with the test equipment connected and you cannot induce the problem by twisting or wiggling wiring harnesses; what else?
What I’ve done for/with customers, if they’re willing; is too give them a quick lesson on how to test for spark, where & when to listen for the sound of the fuel pump. These things will help us narrow down, whether the problem is fuel or ignition related.
When this has happened with one of or regular customers or someone relatively close by; we’ll go out to the vehicle, with some our test equipment; in attempt to catch the gremlin and not have the vehicle towed.
Dan.
Canadian "EH"
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greenhornet
New User
Aug 7, 2008, 6:21 PM
Post #3 of 3
(1198 views)
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Re: 1988 Olsdmobile wouldn't start
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Thanks for the info Dan.
Yes, the tow must have jiggled something back to life. I’ll check the wiring connections just in case that was the problem. If it was my old 1962 Impala I’d know how to fix it. But I don’t understand this computer/sensor stuff. Thanks again.
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