GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Checks

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DEFINITION: The engine cranks OK, but takes a long time to start. The engine does eventually run, or may start, but immediately dies. Note: It is normal to have a longer crank time on CNG.

Preliminary Checks

    • Refer to Symptoms .
    • Verify that the vehicle's operator is using the correct starting procedure.
    • Search for service bulletins.

Sensor/System Checks

    • Inspect the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor with the scan tool. Compare the engine coolant temperature with the ambient air temperature on a cold engine. If the coolant temperature readings is more than five degrees greater or less than the ambient air temperature on a cold engine, inspect for high resistance in the ECT sensor circuit. Refer to Temperature vs. Resistance in Engine Controls - 2.2L in the J Platform Service Manual. If the ECT sensor resistance is not within the specification. refer to DTC P0118 ECT Sensor Circuit High Voltage or DTC P0117 ECT Sensor Circuit Low Voltage in Engine Controls - 2.2L in the J Platform Service Manual.
    • Inspect the throttle position (TP) sensor. If a sticking throttle shaft or binding linkage causes a high TP sensor voltage (open throttle indication), the control module will not control the idle. While monitoring the TP sensor voltage, the scan tool should display less than 0.90 volt with the throttle closed.
    • Inspect the crankshaft position sensor (CKP).
    • Verify proper operation of the IAC valve.
    • Inspect the EGR system for the following conditions:
       - Leaks in the EGR pipes and the adapter.
       - Inspect for a stuck open pintle by removing the EGR valve.

Fuel System Checks

Important: A closed manual shut-off valve will create an extended crank condition.

    • Inspect the fuel pump relay for proper operation. The fuel pump relay circuit supplies a voltage signal to the AF system ECU and the lock-off relay. Refer to Fuel Pump Relay Circuit Diagnosis in Engine Controls - 2.2L in the J Platform Service Manual.
    • Verify the fuel system pressures. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
    • Inspect the gas distribution adapter (GDA) for proper installation and leakage.
    • Inspect for an open NGO enable circuit.
    • Inspect for a skewed fuel pressure sensor (FPS). Refer to CNG Fuel Gauge Reading Inaccurate .

Ignition System Checks

CNG is a gaseous fuel. It requires higher secondary ignition system voltages for the equivalent gasoline operating conditions. If a problem is reported during CNG operating but not during gasoline operation, do not discount the possibility of a CNG-only ignition system failure. Test the system accordingly.

    • Verify proper ignition voltage output using the J 26792 or the equivalent.
    • Inspect the spark plugs for the following conditions:
       - Wet plugs
       - Cracks on the spark plugs
       - Wear
       - Improper spark plug gap
       - Burned electrodes
       - Heavy deposits
    • Inspect the spark plug wires for proper resistance and condition.
    • Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking.
    • Inspect for loose ignition coil connections.
    • Inspect for lose engine control module grounds.
    • Inspect for loose ignition control module grounds.

Engine Mechanical Checks

Important: The AF system delivers fuel to the intake system through fumigation. This method is more sensitive to intake manifold leakage than the gasoline fuel supply system.

    • Check for the following conditions:
       - Vacuum leaks
       - Improper valve timing
       - Worn rocker arms
       - Broken or weak valve springs
       - Worn camshaft lobes
    • Inspect the intake and exhaust manifolds for casting flash. Refer to Intake Manifold Clean and Inspect and Exhaust Manifold Clean and Inspect in Engine Mechanical - 2.2L in the J Platform Service Manual.

Additional Checks

If all the procedures have been completed and no malfunction has been found, review and inspect the following items:

    • Visually and physically inspect all electrical connections within the suspected circuit and systems.
    • Verify scan tool data.
    • Verify the correct PCM software is installed.