SlowSpeed

Hi...I'm new to this forum...been lurking... So far, the posts I've read have helped me keep my '93 3.1 Sedan running.

Recently, I've replaced the PCV; O2 sensor (on manifold); cleaned the EGR and changed the oil.

This all started because it failed Emissions (Nitrous) by 6 pt.s. Cleaning the EGR and replacing the PCV fixed the problem...then it passed. The next day...the Check Engine light came on. Went to AutoZone and they pulled code...it was the O2 sensor. I replaced that and while I was at it, I noticed I had screwed up the gasket on the EGR, so I replaced that also. The car ran like a top till this morning.

I'm running along, about 5 minutes after starting at about 35 MPH...and NOTHING! The motor simply quit and the Check Engine light came on. I coasted to a stop. And wondered.

After waiting a few minutes the car would fire, but not accept any throttle. I discovered it would idle, so I attempted to idle the car home. After 300 yards, it died and refused to start again. It acted like it wanted to "catch" and start...but it couldn't.

A friendly cop stopped; helped me push it off the road and gave me a ride home! (Welcome to rual America! ...just north of Atlanta GA!)

I'm thinking it could be:
1. Fuel Filter
2. Fuel Relay
3. Fuel Pump
4. Fuel Tank Cap (tightness)
5. Ignition Control Module
6. Coil Pack(s)
7. MAF sensor

BTW, I replaced the Idle Control Module about a year ago.

I plan to go purchase a fuel pressure gauge, momentarily.

Any ideas? Plans of action? Do you think I'm on the right track???

Any help for the newbie is GREATLY appreciated.

Tim

Well, ...just returned from Auto Zone...the friendly mgr. immediately said it sounds like my ICM (Ignition Control Module); esp. after I told him the front valve cover had been leaking oil as long as I've owned the car (6 years). He said the oil drips down and eventually kills the module...so be FOREWARNED...don't be lazy and cause a lot of aggravation later!
I'll try installing the ICM tonight or tomorrow and report back...

SlowSpeed

OK,
...let me warn you...to remove the ICM ...is a PITA!...
First of all, just finding all three bolts/nuts is near impossible because of all the grime... Once found...you can't get at 'em. Do yourself a favor and go ahead and remove the fans and motor mounts. In my case, I also had to remove the hot water pipe in front of the front valve cover, because I had to replace the gasket...which was the cause of all my problems...
I also noticed when I un-plugged the connections to the ICM...there was oil all inside each plug!...even when un-plugging the coil packs from the ICM...there was oil on the spades...Although I'll clean them all...no telling if my REAL problem was oil inside one or more of the connections! I just hope I have not ruined any of the wiring or connections also!
I'm tempted to replace the plug wires...while I"m at it.
Oh, BTW you'll need a 5.5 MM socket to remove the coil packs from the ICM...NAPA has it for ~$5...I had to return the first one because it stripped out after the first 5 bolts...there are 6!

I hope all my efforts are met with success...I feel like such a Hopefully, I can finish the job this weekend

Later...

richtazz

Since you had all that oil in the wiring, I'd replace the wires while you are in there. NO sense in doing a half ass job considering what a PITA job it is to do. Change the plugs too and you should be good to go.

SlowSpeed

Well,
It WAS the ICM! Thank GOD, because I think I would have lost my mind if I had to do it again! Seriously, that had to be the worst job I've ever done on a car!

If anyone ever has to replace the ICM, do yourself a big favor and pull out the fans, and all the electrical pieces that surround the middle-bottom bolt of the ICM... Otherwise, you'll be attempting to use a socket like a dentist...with mirrors to see it!...also...it's NOT a 1/2 "...it's a 14 MM...it makes a difference!
Without the "neighboring" components in place, it's a simple job...with them in place, you'd better have A LOT of patience!

I worked around having to replace the electrical connections...I kept spraying "electrical cleanser"...till the oil quit running out of it...then a slobbered electrical connection grease all over the inside of each hole and spade. Oh yeah...I also replaced the valve cover gasket that started the whole thing! You also better have some RTV sealant handy...I could not locate/purchase the gasket that the hot water pipe plugs into; on top of the water pump. (It had to be removed in order to fix the gasket.)
Cost: $80 for the ICM at AutoZone
$5 tube of RTV
$10 2 cans of electrical cleaner
$18 2 valve cover gaskets
$5 for the special 5.5 mm socket to remove/replace the coil packs.
$Experience ...PRICELESS!

I really hope this thread helps someone else. This site has been a godsend to me...keeping the old Lumina alive till I finish my Jeep conversion form a 4 cylinder/5 speed to a: 350/700R4/14BoltRear/Dana60Front on 38s...YEHAW!