1991 GMC Sonoma intermittent starting trouble

139,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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NETONLINE
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4.3L 6 cylinder auto. at times the car starts on 2 tries (short bursts then starter disengages). Other times it may take 6 -12 tries. Sometimes no crank at all. after seveeral attemots whne not starting, if you wait for 20 minutes, it'll crank and start within a couple tries.
Jan 15, 2010 at 1:40 PM
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JDL
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Welcome to the forum, I'd have to make sure the battery has a full charge and the connections are good. Also, when the problem occurs, With key in the start position, I'd check for voltage at the starter solenoid, purple wire. If no voltage, I'd backtrack the circuit. Possibilities, ignition switch-- feed to or from the ignition switch-- neutral switch-- wiring circuit. If that wire is hot, check the starter field terminal for voltage, if no voltage, I suspect the solenoid. Most parts stores sell the solenoid and starter as a unit. You used to be able to buy the solenoid separate, maybe still can. I usually just the unit. Any testing at the starter, make sure the tranny is in park or neutral and the e-brake is set.
Jan 16, 2010 at 3:09 AM
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