99 intrigue rough running/starting

[bjl1]

My 1999 with the 3.8 is having starting problems. Once cranking a few times it starts. Feels like it wants to kill though. Sounds bogged down and smells like fuel I would say. Seems to be running rich. Any ideas? Previous posts sound like a fuel pressure sensor maybe?

Thanks,

bjl

[BNaylor]

Check the fuel pressure regulator on the front fuel injector rail driver's side of engine. Remove vacuum line and see if there is fuel contamination from a ruptured diaphragm. To test, hookup fuel pressure tester at Schrader valve on fuel pressure regulator (FPR). Compare against base reading at fuel pump prime mode, starting engine, removing/connecting vacuum line to FPR and if a 4 - 7 psi difference the FPR is bad.

Also, clean the throttle body with throttle body (TB) spray cleaner (STP). The TB carbons up with soft carbon over a period of time. The MAF sensor at top of TB can be cleaned with MAF sensor or electrical contact cleaner.

[bjl1]

Had a mechanic take a look at this issue. Found an error code, which was emmisions related. They cleaned the EGR valve. I thought this was odd that they did not replace it. Is this easy to replace yourself? I may just pick one up. Not quite sure where it is though. I do not have a repair manual- maybe a wise investment.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by bjl1

Had a mechanic take a look at this issue. Found an error code, which was emmisions related. They cleaned the EGR valve. I thought this was odd that they did not replace it. Is this easy to replace yourself? I may just pick one up. Not quite sure where it is though. I do not have a repair manual- maybe a wise investment.

What was the DTC error code? Cleaning the EGR valve is a lot cheaper and a good starting point. The EGR valve is not inexpensive. They will inspect and clean carbon off the pintle. Make sure it moves freely, etc. Also, the EGR pipe and mount from the exhaust to the lower intake manifold should be checked for carbon buildup. The EGR valve is easy to change on a 3800. Just two 13mm nuts holding it on to the flange and disconnect electrical connector. A new gasket should be used.

Also, check/replace your PCV valve and o-ring seals if you have not done so. It will cause an EGR insufficient flow problem, set a DTC error code, and trigger the SES light because it will affect MAP and engine vacuum.

EGR is located on the driver's side of engine towards firewall. Right next to the throttle body and about two inches away from the red handled ATF fluid dipstick. Good luck!

[bjl1]

Code was 1404

Where is the PCV valve located? Is it hard to change/costly?

I have not ever replaced it.

This car is at 63000 miles, guess things like this will start needing replacement.

Thanks,

BJL

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by bjl1

Code was 1404

Where is the PCV valve located? Is it hard to change/costly?

I have not ever replaced it.

This car is at 63000 miles, guess things like this will start needing replacement.

Thanks,

BJL

The PCV is located under the MAP sensor on the passenger side of the engine. See link below for a Series II 3800:

http://macgp.clubgp.com/howto/engine/pcv/gt/pcv.html

Be careful not to break the plastic tangs/retainer holding the MAP sensor down over the twist plastic retainer/spring holding down the PCV valve. Also make sure you take note of the two o-ring seals per the procedure. Do not leave out. Replace both if damaged. The PCV valve is under $5.00. I use the Fram brand which seems just as good as the OEM AC Delco.

Good luck!