cavalier z24 starts runs about 1 mile stops

Avatar
MTHM1964
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
my 1987 cavalier z24 has the 2.8 6 cylinder motor i recently installed a new transmission filter gasket fluid as well as a new thermostat 2 weeks later my car starts i drive approximately 1 mile the motor shuts off just as if i turned the switch off.i thought it may have been the coil packs so i changed them but the same problem occurred so my question is what could possibly be the problem?
Apr 13, 2007 at 6:10 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
I would ignore the things have done to it as being relatable, but keep them in the back of your mind.

Does it restart immediately, or do you have to wait?
Apr 13, 2007 at 10:31 PM
Avatar
MTHM1964
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
i usually have to wait 4-10 hours before it will start again it seems as though what is causing the problem the computer shuts down the ignition firing this is why i thought it may have been the coil packs but evidently it wasn't
Apr 14, 2007 at 3:28 AM
Avatar
MTHM1964
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
my 1987 cavalier z24 2.8 engine has 173000 miles i checked with a local auto parts store and was informed the problem could be the ignition module or the fuel pump i was wonderring if this sounds like that is correct with the problem should i have changed the ignition module when i changed the coil pack?what is your reccomendation?
Apr 14, 2007 at 7:19 AM
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
I would be surprized if it was the pump, but you can try 2 things when it happens regarding the pump. 1- bang on the bottom of the tank while cranking. 2- spray some starting fluid in the throttle body, then crank it. I would lean more toward the ignition module or crank shaft sensor.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_mod_1.jpg

I may be wrong, but I think the crankshaft sensor is on the flip side of the ignition module and is common for cracking. I believe also that there are times when they are cracked the the module is being removed that a piece of it can fall into the motor in which case the oil pan has to be dropped to get it out. If I am right, I would change the crankshaft sensor at the same time as the ignition module as it is such a joy to get in there.
Apr 14, 2007 at 9:14 AM
Avatar
MTHM1964
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
i do not think it is the gas pump for 1 reason when the vehicle shuts off i checked to see if it was firing and there was no sparks of any type from either of the coils that was the reason i changed the coil packs now the exact same situation occurred the fuel pressure release valve by the fuel injector body sprays gas very well .therefore i would honestly think it is something other than the fuel pump. it seems like it has to be in the ignition and firing .how often do those modules go bad?
Apr 14, 2007 at 9:44 AM
Avatar
MTHM1964
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
ok i changed the ignition module and coil packs the car starts, runs, shuts down does not start back.so what else could be causing this vehicle to fire up then stall out then lose all spark for hours before restarting?
Apr 16, 2007 at 5:42 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle