Regal dies, I mean dead

[Scot Mosher]

I have a 1989 Buick Regal that typically runs well but simply dies without warning. The car may be going any spped when, boom...dead. It may or may not restart for me. I replaced the computer a couple of years ago, it ran well but has sat for a year.
It started up immediately with a new battery, ran fine for a week and is now dying again. I had the ignition control module and coils tested, all is fine. Replace the crankshaft sensor, no codes will come up.
After towing it home the last time it's set for about two weeks. Now it sounds like the starter/solenoid may be shot...too much use perhaps?
Please, where do I go from here? Replace the computer again and sell it quick? Thanks, Scot

[GTP Dad]

How long ago did you replace the CPS and what size engine do you have? Some of the engines have two CPS sensors while most only have one. If you have an engine other than a 3.3 you may also have a bad cam position sensor.

Another thing you may want to check are the grounds on the vehicle. You didn't say if everything shuts down or just the engine. If everything goes dead then try the grounds otherwise try the above.

[Scot Mosher]

Cam position sensor...I missed that one in Chiltons. It's the engine that dies, I still have radio/lights. I probably overstated just because it dies so suddenly. Thats why I'm betting against a fuel pump problem, it dies with no sputter or hesitation. I'll still check the grounds and replace the camshaft sensor.
Can you tell me where I'll find it?
Please don't tell me this 3.1 has two crankshaft sensors...the one I changed at the back of the engine was a bugger even with the engine tipped.
Thank you VERY much! Scot

[Scot Mosher]

I forgot, the CPS was changed about 3 months ago, the car started and ran fine for several days and then back to the same old trick. Scot

[GTP Dad]

You are OK the 3.1 only has one. The issue you may want to look into is the fact that the CPS you put in may be bad. If everything else checks out you may have to change it again. Since it worked ok for a couple of weeks that may indicate that there is an issue with this one. But I doubt that that will be the problem.

The cam position sensor relates directly to the Crank sensor and if the crank sensor is good then the cam sensor is where I would start.

[Scot Mosher]

Well, I finally get a day off tomorrow...if it's decent weather I'll give the cam sensor a try. I bet I have to pull the starter first given the way it sounds. I'll let you know what happens. Thanks! Scot

[mikelund]

Chilton's has reasonable info. Helm, Inc has better info in the full Service or shop manual. http://www.helminc.com/helm/home