NO START AT ZERO DEGREES FAHRENHEIT OR BELOW
VEHICLES AFFECTED: All '83-'84 Vehicles Equipped With 4-Cylinder 1.8L And 2.5L Engines (Engine Codes O And R)
The following items should be checked when encountering a comment of hard starting on Pontiac produced 4-cylinder engines at 0 deg.C (32 deg.F) and below ambients.
1. Engine spark plug application should be: 1.8 OHC - R44XLS - .035 in gap 2.5 EFI - R43TSX - .060 in gap
2. Engine should be serviced with 5W-30 low friction energy conserving oil. GM Engine oil is one possible source for this oil.
3. Battery must be at least 80% state of charge.
4. Check for stored codes. Replace any components indicated by code. Check connectors.
5. Check for proper operation of fuel pump relay. Also verify proper operation of fuel pump check valve.
6. Fuel pressure should be between 9-13 p.s.i. (62-90 KPa) with the engine running.
7. Check coolant sensor (open sensor will cause excessive fuel delivery on cranking, shorted sensor will result in lean condition).
8. Perform HEI system check (refer to 1984 Service Manual Sections 6D, 6E2 and 6E3).
9. Generator capable of producing at least 95% of rated output.
10. Inspect fuel for contamination.
11. Check operation of block heater (if equipped).
All the above items are important for the proper starting of these engines at ambients as low as -29 deg.C (-20 deg.F).
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
