rapco01

I have a 2002 Astro Cargo 4.3L that is having a “hard to start issue particularly after warm-up”…w/ no codes thrown. I’ve tried spraying starting fluid directly into the throttle body and still no start to the point of killing the battery… and NO CODES! What is kinda crazy is that eventually it started like nothing is wrong after I disconnected the ECM (electronic computer module) but then I shut it off again it failed to start. I’ve been suspecting maybe it’s the ECM as this problem happened w/ a previous Astro only realized after changing the fuel filter and pump, plugs, wires, distributor, rotor, etc…? I’m getting ready to sell it and don’t want to stick the next guy w/ this problem. Thanks

old_master

Does the vehicle have a security system or remote starter, either factory installed or aftermarket?

rapco01

In answer to your question... yes it has both an after market security system w/ remote starter. However, I have determined and solved the problem! It was a faulty distributor and rotor... simply the ignition. My buddy mechanic never installed the new set last year for whatever reason... maybe he was hung-over or something. I was under the impression that it had a new set and I finally suggested that he remove the distributor and the six "rotor posts" were as dirty and worn as you could imagine. Thank you Old Master for the response and the forum.

old_master

Glad you figured it out and got her going again.

Dirty/worn terminals in the distributor cap is a common observation. However, what causes most of it is perfectly normal. When replacing the cap & rotor, a small amount of silicone dielectric grease is applied to each terminal, inside and out. When the engine is running, the current that passes through the grease crystalizes on the terminals inside the cap, perfectly normal. A problem that is often overlooked with the distributor is a clogged vent screen in the bottom of the housing. The vent is there to reduce condensation buildup on the underside of the distributor cap. Excess condensation can cause hard starting, no start, misfire, and can also set P0300 series DTC's, (Diagnostic Trouble Codes). GM addressed the issue by instructing the technician to remove the screen. Just something to keep in mind.