I still have no spark I do not have any power to the radio or dash?

Tiny
BRAYDEN5364
  • MEMBER
  • 1992 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
  • 130,000 MILES
So, I got the truck from my uncle. It sat for a long time, probably 10 years or less, and I changed the ICM, distributor, spark plugs and the thing on the back of the distributor and I still have no spark. I don’t have any power to the radio or dash and stuff, and I cannot figure out what the problem may be. We tested the spark plug wires with a voltmeter and they were good. So, can anybody give me suggestions or answers that may solve this problem?
Saturday, January 25th, 2025 AT 12:29 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
Hi,

Have you checked to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes stored? This truck will have an OBD1 system, and it doesn't require a scan tool to retrieve codes.

Follow the directions in this link and let me know what you find. Additionally, let me know the engine size in the truck and if it is 4wd.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Take care,

Joe
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Saturday, January 25th, 2025 AT 9:17 PM
Tiny
BRAYDEN5364
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  • 6 POSTS
No I didn’t check the codes. I really never thought about it, but the truck is a 4.3l v6 and it is 4x4.
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Monday, January 27th, 2025 AT 6:51 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

There should be power to the ICM when the key is turned on. See pics below. Check for power. Also, I realize the distributor has been replaced. Did it include a new pick-up coil?

If so, remove the distributor cap and have a helper crank the engine. Confirm the distributor is turning.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below. Note: There are diagnostics included in the pics. Let me know if you are comfortable performing them.
Images (Click to make bigger)
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Monday, January 27th, 2025 AT 6:36 PM
Tiny
BRAYDEN5364
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Yes the distributor came with a new coil thing on it and yes, I will test the diagnostics, but I really don’t know how to do that (I’m only 16 and trying to understand the best I can).
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Tuesday, January 28th, 2025 AT 9:41 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,055 POSTS
First, it is great to see someone your age taking such an interest. Never stop learning!!!

As far as what I referred to, the easiest thing is to remove the distributor cap and have someone crank the engine to see if the rotor turns. Also, the pick-up coil is internal to the distributor, so I suspect it has a new one in it, but anything is possible.

See if the rotor turns and let me know what you find.

Also, the ICM is shown in the pic 1 above. Locate the C on the ICM two-pin connector. The wire that goes to the "C" on the module should have battery voltage when the key is in the run position. Let me know if you are comfortable performing this.

Here is a link you may find interesting and helpful. It explains how to test wiring. I hope it helps.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, January 29th, 2025 AT 7:26 PM
Tiny
BRAYDEN5364
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Thanks man I will try this one day when I get the time, but I will definitely let you know.
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Wednesday, January 29th, 2025 AT 9:38 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 50,321 POSTS
JACOBANDNICKOLAS is one of our best! Please let us know what you find.
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Saturday, February 1st, 2025 AT 9:29 AM

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