VCM-A troubles?

From reading posts I gather that only the Tech 1 and Tech 2 will read VCMA codes. Has anyone found a reader that's under several thousand to buy? Also, has anyone tried replacing the VCMA with a boneyard version?

Ok so like it says, I"M new here. More info - I have a 95 S10 Blazer 4 door 4X4, 4.3 with OBD2, Vin is W. My Blaze definitely has the VCMA and Enhanced ignition system distributor. I'm thinking I might need a different VCMA, therefore the previous note on code readers and boneyard VCMA. Problem started about a month ago. Can't afford to be stranded so have beached my favorite ride for now.The Blaze starts a little slow when cold (10 -14 seconds) and won't start when warmed up. It cranks ok but no signs of firing. Distributor was out about 3 months ago and crank got turned, but believe everything aligned up again using Prcedure B in factory service manual. Ran good since distributor out but not as good as before. Ideas?

I've a 95 Blazer 4.3 4dooor 4X4 with VCM-A, OBD2 Enhanced Ignition System ( spark wires plug in horizontally). About three months ago had distributor out and crank got turned. Believe everything back aligned using Factory shop manual procedure B. Blazer has run good (not great) for about 6 weeks. Arrived home running ok. Went out 10 minutes later wouldn't fire up, cranks good. Due to cracked secondary tower- replaced coil. Also replaced plugs and spark plug wires. When cold it starts in about 12 to 16 seconds-slower than usual. Doesn't fire up at all when hot. Can't afford several thousand $ for a Tech 1 or Tech2 scanner/reader, which I believe are the only tools to read the VCMA. Any good ideas or experiences?

This could be a few things. First I would be looking at the distributor, making sure it is properly installed. From there, make sure you have a good spark. If that checks out, check your fuel pressure and make sure it up to spec and holding as required. As for scanners, the Autoxray works for sure and a few others do work, but I don't remember exactly which ones. For the '95, as long as you have the same service number VCM, you can use them from the scrap yard. I use to have a '95 and had the same frustration when I couldn't read the codes. I did buy(and still use) the Autoxray for the '95. I updated so I could use it for my current autos too.

When your testing for spark, make sure you test away from the ignition module. Any high current spike near the module could damage your ignition module, making things worse(and costly). good luck and let us know what you find out!

Answer back to you first post.
2 post gets confusing on two different answers.
MT

[quote=TMScouts]Ok so like it says, I"M new here. More info - I have a 95 S10 Blazer 4 door 4X4, 4.3 with OBD2, Vin is W. My Blaze definitely has the VCMA and Enhanced ignition system distributor. I'm thinking I might need a different VCMA, therefore the previous note on code readers and boneyard VCMA. Problem started about a month ago. Can't afford to be stranded so have beached my favorite ride for now.The Blaze starts a little slow when cold (10 -14 seconds) and won't start when warmed up. It cranks ok but no signs of firing. Distributor was out about 3 months ago and crank got turned, but believe everything aligned up again using Prcedure B in factory service manual. Ran good since distributor out but not as good as before. Ideas?


FRI 8/22/08 DID a Fuel pressure test today using the fuel pump test wire( red wire ith insulated female spade fitting) and got the following. Using test wire I got exactly 44 PSI. Regular running of the engine i got exactly 44 PSI. Put the blaze up on ramps and pinched off both lines by the fuel filter (not the fuel supply) with hose clamp pliers -still exactly 44 PSI. Since the current fuel PSI regulator has 287,000 miles on it, I replaced it with a new one tonight. JOY OH JOY still exactly 44 PSI. HELP !?!

Throw a booster pack, or try boosting it with another car. Does the pressure now go up?

Either way, sounds like its a fuel pump issue.