1997 Regal GS - Starting problem

[bushcds]

I have a 1997/1998 Buick Regal GS with 211,00 miles. It has just started acting up when the weather is minus 0. Engine will start, but will not stay running unless you are giving it gas (rough running). Had a computer check done on it and the only thing it showed was a security problem. Had new key made and the problem continues. Also have to take fuse out of High Blower slot when getting out of car since it will continue to run when car is off. Have noticed floor board wet on passenger side of vehicle. Any suggestions on the problems would be helpful.

[BNaylor]

Welcome to AF.

When you do get it started how long will it run? Have you checked fuel pressure at the front fuel injector rail Schrader valve by the supercharger snout?

If the security issue was valid it should not start. Any security light on at the Instrument Panel?

Assuming you have the digital - ACC climate control system since you have a GS model it sounds like you have a bad blower motor control module. The blower hi-speed relay is located in the module and for some reason it is staying energized. Common problem for water intrusion is the cowling rubber seals by the intake vent passenger side of car and also check to make sure you have a cabin filter installed.

[bushcds]

Thanks for your reply. It will quit running shortly after you start it unless you give it gas and keep the rpms up. Was unsure if the water problem on the floor could have an effect on any wiring harness. Is it hard to check the cabin filter?

[BNaylor]

Just so we cover it how old is the fuel filter? This sounds like a fuel supply problem to me. One common problem based on your symptoms is a fuel supply problem where the fuel pump is not being speed controlled properly or not going into high speed mode for starting. Basically it is a two speed fuel pump. This is applicable to '97-'00 Regals and other '97-'00 GM cars with the L67 SII 3800 engine. There is is fuel pump resistor that may be bad or damaged/corroded. A fuel pressure test will confirm it.

Following the procedure below you can bypass or jump the speed control relay at the engine compartment fuse box which will force it into high speed mode. The procedure is for a L67 Grand Prix but applicable to the L67 Regal. The speed control relay is marked Relay #18 for Regal.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=658282

The cabin air filter and inspection for water intrusion can be done by removing the cowling plastic panel held on by at least 3 plastic retainers located under the passenger side wiper. The same plastic panel has the rubber seals I mentioned earlier.

[bushcds]

The whole fuel pump and fuel filter were replaced about 4 month ago. Will run the tests that you suggested and see what happens.

[bushcds]

Finally the weather and other factor allowed me to attempt your suggustion. Followed your instructions and after making the modifications needed to the diagram for a Regal GS, was able to start the car and have it run. Looks like the problem might just be the Fuel Pump Resistor.Will be getting the part and then trying to change it. Have located an example on how to change it on the Grand Prix. Is the location and method the same with the Regal?

[BNaylor]

Thanks for the feedback. The resistor is located in the same area as the Grand Prix. Just remove the passenger headlamp assembly, look behind it, and you should see it along with the wiring to it. Good luck!

[bushcds]

Is the part number 88951182 fo rthe Grand Prix the same for the Regal. I'm assuming this is a GM Dealer part only and a parts store will not have it?

[BNaylor]

The only other source that I know of is at the link below. Auto Parts stores will not have it. Otherwise, it is GM dealer or AC Delco authorized parts stores only. You can run a few weeks with it bypassed until you get the resistor. Part number 88951182 is correct for all GM "W" body cars '97 - '00 only with the L67 supercharged SII 3800 engine.

Click here