99 Regal with 3800 Dies while in Park; Then won't start!

[Pony]

Just purchased a 1999 Buick Regal with 3800/II engine. Twice now, both times while in park (waiting for train/Waiting at car wash) the engine has died, and then will not restart. I cranked the engine the last time, until battery exhustion and had given up hope of it starting. Then on a last turn of the key it fired right up, after 10-15 minutes. After driving it (and letting the battery recharge) I had no further problems. Any ideas?

One interesting note; I actually did crank the engine until the battery was dead (not continuous). The battery was drained enough to "reset" the digital trip odometer. By completly draining the battery could I have "reset" a computor modual or something that finally allowed the engine to fire? Any help would be appreciated. Just got rid of another headache and thought the history of the 3800 wouldn't let me down.

Sorry about the ramblings. Hope someone can help.

Pony

[poolplayrchick]

Not sure if this applies to your Regal but my 89 the Crank Positon Sensor went bad and it is the only sensor that will prevent your car from starting. Test this with the Multimeter first before trying to replace (it's not easy to get out) also make sure the harness is in good condition. That seems to be my problem at the moment.

Good Luck

[newlexdon]

Had same trouble...dying for no reason. Had it towed to Buick and they diagnosed as a faulty crankshaft sensor. Replaced it and no more problems.