1997 GMC C1500 Won't start

S.J.

MEMBER
1997 GMC C1500
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
94,000 MILES

My engine has been hard to start in the morning or after the truck has sat for a while, not being started for a few days. After it starts, there is no problem starting for the rest of the day and sometimes no problem for a few days. Sometimes it starts right up with no problem. Today, it will not start at all. It turns over strong but never catches. Once it did try but no success. I haven't tested the spark yet but do you think it could be the ignition control module or distributor pick-up? How easy it that to change?

3 Replies

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,548 POSTS

Start by spraying starting fluid in intake while cranking, if it runs a few seconds then it is a fuel problem. If not ignition.

Ignition modules can be removed and tested at most autoparts stores for free.

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Tuesday, May 25th, 2010 AT 8:41 AM

S.J.

MEMBER
2 POSTS

My truck is fuel injected.

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Tuesday, May 25th, 2010 AT 11:15 AM

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,548 POSTS

Yes, I know.

Spray starting fluid in intake (throttle body) to rule out fuel. You will have to remove connecting hose from filter box to TB.

If it doesn't run s few seconds, then fuel is eliminated as a cause.

Then remove module and have it tested.

Generally when modules fail, they will fail when engine is hot, then work again when engine cools down, then failing again when hot.

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Wednesday, May 26th, 2010 AT 7:48 AM