'93 Buick Problem

[codominance]

I own a Buick Lesabre '93 and I am having some problems. When I start the car, it runs for about a minute, after which the RPM starts decreasing & increasing randomly, and then the car proceeds to turn off. After the point in which the car turns off, it does not turn on again until after some time. Some time it will not turn on at all for a while.
I thought the spark plugs might be the problem, and when I took them out they were wet with gasoline. I verified the wires that go to the coil of the spark plugs, and they make a healthy spark.

Does anyone have a clue as to what could be the problem?

[auto trainy]

When this happens do you notice any smoke out the exaust ?

[codominance]

Originally Posted by auto trainy

When this happens do you notice any smoke out the exaust ?

When the car starts shifting its RPM, smoke starts coming out of the exhaust, yes.

[HotZ28]

Have you checked the codes?

[spinne1]

It sounds like your ignition timing is all screwed up. It could be many things, but the ignition module and coils are a first place to look (have them checked out by a garage). Also, your magnet inside your timing cover could have disintegrated, causing a lack of a camshaft signal (this very thing happened to my wife's 92, which is why I am suggesting it). Your timing chain also could have loosened to the point that it jumped a tooth, but this is very unlikely and would be the last thing I would suspect. I would start by getting the engine codes, then proceeding from there.

[codominance]

I checked the code book and it was code 44, specifically the oxygen sensor, and code 58, which I could not find in the book. I replaced the oxygen sensor, but the problem is that the check engine is not coming on as long as the engine runs, the 1-3 minutes before turning off. I replaced the spark plugs, coils, camshaft sensor, electronic control module, and verified the cylinder compression. Still nothing, the problem persists.

[HotZ28]

GM Generic Codes



Code 44 = O2 sensor (lean exhaust)
Code 58 = Trans code-TTS temp high


If your 02 sensor is reading a "lean exhaust" you must be getting some unmetered air in from somewhere. Check engine vacuum and all vacuum lines. Also be sure to check fuel pressure. It should be 38-45 psi on the rail.

[spinne1]

If I am not mistaken a code 58 on the Lesabre is the VATS system. You really need to get it checked out by a competent garage before you waste any more money buying parts.

[gm_classic]

Code 58 is the Pass-KeyII fuel enable circuit(security system).
There could be a problem with the resistor(chip) in your ignition key.