1998 Intrigue 3800 Engine Trouble. (Missing/bucking under power)

[flash12]

I have a 1998 Olds Intrigue with the 3800 Motor. 125,000 miles. Haven't had a bit of trouble with it until now. Car was running fine when we parked it one night, got up next morning to go to work and it is missing, cutting out, and bucking under acceleration. Once you get it up to speed and set the cruise it will run fine until you get to a hill or something where it comes under load again and then it cuts out. Anyone have any clue on what I should look for???

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by flash12

I have a 1998 Olds Intrigue with the 3800 Motor. 125,000 miles. Haven't had a bit of trouble with it until now. Car was running fine when we parked it one night, got up next morning to go to work and it is missing, cutting out, and bucking under acceleration. Once you get it up to speed and set the cruise it will run fine until you get to a hill or something where it comes under load again and then it cuts out. Anyone have any clue on what I should look for???

On the Series II 3800, its a good idea to do the basics such as spark plugs, wires, fuel filter, etc. Might even try running some good fuel injector cleaner through the system.

Depending on how bad it is cutting out under load conditions, it could be a defective or dirty Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF).

In a worse case scenario, the torque convertor clutch may not be releasing properly indicating a sticky or bad TCC-PWM solenoid. Also a possible clogged CAT convertor or 02 sensors but since its a open loop mode problem the 02 sensors are unlikely. The 02 sensors are used in closed loop mode like during cruising.

[panzer dragoon]

check (replace) that fuel filter first (as bnaylor3.4L said).

Runs fine until you hit the flow limit of the dirty fuel filter.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by panzer dragoon

(as bnaylor3.4L said).

Hey what's up Panzer Dragoon. Just want to let you know that the 3400 in my handle has nothing to do with engine size...lol.

My primary ride is a '01 Regal GS and my toy is a '97 GTP.







Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM, SLP Headers,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, 2.5 DP/Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 72mm TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 103,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials
1/4 ET: 13.210 sec. @ 104.490 mph
0 - 60 ft: 1.945 sec.

[howardjltx]

Hard to say, could be catalytic converts clogged, could be crank angle sensor, fuel problems, spark problems etc, however these newer cars can self diagnose problems.

Here we have "Autozone Parts" that for free has a BASIC scanner that will pull problem codes and tell you your problem. Try to find some parts house that has the scanner and not guess at the problems.

Originally Posted by flash12

I have a 1998 Olds Intrigue with the 3800 Motor. 125,000 miles. Haven't had a bit of trouble with it until now. Car was running fine when we parked it one night, got up next morning to go to work and it is missing, cutting out, and bucking under acceleration. Once you get it up to speed and set the cruise it will run fine until you get to a hill or something where it comes under load again and then it cuts out. Anyone have any clue on what I should look for???

[BNaylor]

Taking it to Autozone or places like Advanced is a good idea if he has a SES/CEL Mil light on. Our local Autozones will not scan unless the light is on. And the other problem is Autozone uses generic scanners which only give codes such as P0XXX and not GM manufacturer specific codes such as P1XXX. Many ignition, misfire, crankshaft position or camshaft position codes only show up as P1XXX. Although the PCM does a fairly good job of giving DTC error codes it doesn't tell you what exactly is wrong or what to replace. Many times it's still hit or miss and involves troubleshooting or the process of illimination.

For example: P0420 is CAT convertor operating below efficiency. It is generated by the rear 02 sensor after the CAT via the PCM module and referencing to the front 02 sensor. So therefore there's the possibility of a rear 02 sensor, CAT convertor, front 02 sensor, exhaust leak, a defective EGR valve, wiring or PCM module itself.

Many times no DTC error code is generated which makes it even more difficult. Just my 2 cents.

[flash12]

Took the car in to Autozone and had the code read. It gave a Random Misfire code. Bought a set of plugs, wires, and a fuel filter. Drove the car home and replaced the front 3 plugs and wires that are the easiest to get to (car was still hot). Took it out for a test drive and it runs as good as new. I will let the car sit overnight and cool and will replace the back 3 plugs and wires and also the fuel filter. Thanks guys!

[BNaylor]

Glad to hear you got it resolved. Oh yes, have fun with the rear plugs but it's do-able with a little patience and a few universal socket joints.

Just a suggestion but be sure to use dielectric silicone type grease on the plugs/boots. It will make it easier to remove the next tune up. I had to cut my old rear wires and boots off.