Starting Problem

[1990s15jimmy]

Hello everybody,

I have a 1990 GMC S-15 Jimmy with the 4.3L engine. I believe that my main problem has to do with starting, but I will also describe my other observations.

When I first start my truck for the day, it starts up just fine and runs fine. While driving around in the desert heat with the windows rolled down, I observe that the battery voltage seems to be dropping (according to the dash gauge). Occasionally, the check engine light would also come on. Sometimes the check engine light goes off while driving, or the light won't come back on after I restart the truck later on. I pulled an EGR system fault code from the truck after the light came on one time. I remember replacing a cracked EGR valve before, but I haven't checked it since the check engine light has been coming on again.

Other than all that, when I go to the gas station, store, etc., and shut off the truck, I have a hard time starting it again. The truck has been running for at least 15 minutes and the thermostat has already opened. I can turn the key, hear the fuel pump activate, and the starter starts cranking. It cranks slow to very slow. In fear of draining my battery, I would wait 5 or 10 minutes before I try to start again. The second time around the truck will start (but it would still struggle). I have not allowed the battery to die trying to start the engine, but that's why I want to fix this problem.

I took the truck to a Sears, and they "tested" my starting system. They said that my battery and alternator performed okay. I didn't believe them, and bought a new battery anyways. The new battery didn't help. I still have the same symptoms I described above. I also replaced the alternator about 6 months ago, so I doubt that it may be the cause.

Any help or advice anyone can give me would be much appreciated.


wreckshop

[Spooksemall]

I think that your problem is your starter is getting hot while you are driving. I've seen this problem in some older chevys with V8s. What happens is the heat from the exhaust literally cooks your starter and when the starter is hot it wont work like it should. To fix that the local autoparts store sells a heat insulation (it looks kinda like an ace bandage) that goes right on the exhaust pipe I sugest putting some of it on the pipe right next to the starter that will cut down on the heat and your starter should stop leaving you stranded.

[1990s15jimmy]

Ok thanks, I'll try that out. I hope it's that easy to fix. I've never experienced this problem before, so I was thinking it was something worse. I'll update the board after I try this fix.