Checks
| Action
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DEFINITION: A steady pulsation or jerking that follows engine speed, which is
usually more pronounced as the engine load increases. This condition is not normally
felt above 1500 RPM or 48 km/h (30 mph). The exhaust has a steady
spitting sound at idle or at low speed.
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Preliminary
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• | Verify that the engine control module (ECM) grounds are clean, tight,
and in the proper locations. |
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Fuel System
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• | Test or inspect items that can cause an engine to run lean. For a lean
condition, refer to
DTC P0171 or P0174
. |
• | Test or inspect items that can cause an engine to run rich. For a rich
condition, refer to
DTC P0172 or P0175
. |
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Sensor/System
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• | Test for the correct operation of the intake manifold tuning valve (IMTV)
system. |
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Ignition System
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• | Wet down the secondary ignition system with water from a spray bottle.
Wetting down the secondary ignition system may help locate damaged or deteriorated
components. Look/listen for arcing or misfiring as water is applied. |
• | Remove the spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions: |
- | Refer to the following procedures: |
• | If the spark plugs are fouled by gas, coolant, or oil, determine the cause
before replacing the plugs. Refer to the following procedures: |
• | Test the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor for the correct resistance.
The CKP sensor resistance may be out of range after a hot soak. The resistance should
be between 460-620 ohms. |
• | Inspect for the correct installation of the ignition coil seals. Incorrect
installation may allow water to enter the spark plug area. Inspect for moisture and
corrosion. |
• | Inspect the ignition coils and the spark plug boots for cracks or carbon
tracking. |
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Engine Mechanical
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• | Inspect for the following engine mechanical conditions: |
- | Excessive oil in the combustion chamber or leaking valve seals |
- | Incorrect cylinder compression |
- | Sticking or leaking valves |
- | Excessive carbon buildup in the combustion chambers. Clean the chambers
with top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions on the can. |
- | For more
information, refer to the following procedures in Engine Mechanical - 2.5L (LBK): |
• | Inspect the following for incorrect basic engine parts: |
- | The pistons, connecting rods, and bearings |
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Additional Checks
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• | Inspect the following exhaust system components: |
- | The exhaust system for physical damage |
- | The mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure |
- | The three-way catalytic converter(s) for restrictions. |
• | Electromagnetic interference (EMI) on the reference circuit can cause
a misfire condition. You can usually detect EMI with a scan tool by monitoring the
engine speed parameter. A sudden increase in the engine speed parameter with little
change in actual engine speed indicates that EMI is present. Inspect the high voltage
components near the ignition control circuit if a condition exists. |
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