hard starts

[iroc343]

I have a 94 caprice with the LT1 engine and from time to time it gives me fits at start up. The fuel pressure is good, and I've replaced the opti-spark unit ($542), coil, and ignition module. It will start and run fine for weeks, then I'll try to start it and it just won't want to catch as it sputters. It actually seems to continue to fire after I let go of the ignition key. If I keep trying, and the battery doesn't go dead, I can eventually get it started, then it will start repeatedly and run fine for weeks. I'm now wondering if it might be the PCM, seems like it's something to do with the ignition. Has anyone else encountered anything like this?

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by iroc343

I have a 94 caprice with the LT1 engine and from time to time it gives me fits at start up. The fuel pressure is good, and I've replaced the opti-spark unit ($542), coil, and ignition module. It will start and run fine for weeks, then I'll try to start it and it just won't want to catch as it sputters. It actually seems to continue to fire after I let go of the ignition key. If I keep trying, and the battery doesn't go dead, I can eventually get it started, then it will start repeatedly and run fine for weeks. I'm now wondering if it might be the PCM, seems like it's something to do with the ignition. Has anyone else encountered anything like this?

the ECT tells the computer/pcm what the temp is. if this is not correct you will get poor start ..you will not get any DTC'S ..

with an ohmmeter this can be checked, also check the connector for corrosion to it.

if this were an ignition problem it would be more than a hard start.
also it would not run well for a long time then act up again..

[sgbuick]

I have a similar problem, very intermittent. Once in a very long while it will have trouble catching, and then when it starts it runs very fast for about 15 seconds and then return to normal. Does the same thing whether it's hot or cold.

[iroc343]

I think I'll check the grounds. Once when it wouldn't start after many tries, I called a wrecker to take it home. He lifted the car and tries it one last time, and it started. Mybe twissting the body/frame enhanced the ground.

[iroc343]

I think I found the problem. A broken ground lug by the coil. Starts like a champ.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by iroc343

I think I found the problem. A broken ground lug by the coil. Starts like a champ.

how did ya miss that when you ? replaced the coil ???

[iroc343]

The coil was actually replaced prior to this starting issue. I had a previous starting issue that turned out to be the coil wire had corroded and broke at the coil terminal. The coil was replaced at that time, possibly leading to this problem.