GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Preliminary Checks

Perform this procedure only after approved diagnostic procedures have isolated a CNG system component replacement or CNG system components require removal for other vehicle repairs. This vehicle is designed to start and operate on CNG. A switch-over to gasoline (the FIL is illuminated) should only occur under the following conditions:

    • The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor indicates the CNG fuel level is low.
        Recommended action: Add CNG fuel.
    • When certain Alternative Fuel ECM DTCs set.
        Recommended action: Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls) .
    • Engine crank time exceeds 8 seconds.
        Recommended action: Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls) .
    • The ECT sensor indicates engine temperature is less than -12°C (10°F).
        Recommended action: Perform a vehicle decel maneuver after meeting the following conditions:
       - The coolant temperature is greater than 30°C (86°F)
       - The FTP sensor indicates the CNG fuel level is OK.
       - The engine speed is greater than 1,300 RPM.
       - The TP sensor continuously indicates the throttle is less than 6 percent for at least 800 ms.
       - The VSS indicates vehicle speed is greater than 56 km/h (35 mph).
    • Every 100th engine start.
        Recommended action: Perform a vehicle decel maneuver after meeting the following conditions:
       - The coolant temperature is greater than 30°C (86°F)
       - The FTP sensor indicates the CNG fuel level is OK.
       - The engine speed is greater than 1,300 RPM.
       - The TP sensor continuously indicates the throttle is less than 6 percent for at least 800 ms.
       - The VSS indicates vehicle speed is greater than 56 km/h (35 mph).

Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure

  1. Using a scan tool communicate with the Alternative Fuels ECM.
  2. If communication cannot be established and the Diagnostic System Check - Alternative Fuels (Engine Controls) has already been performed proceed to Step 7.

  3. Store the DTC Information for any Alternative Fuels ECM DTCs that may be set.
  4. Clear all Alternative Fuels ECM DTC Information and then turn the ignition OFF.
  5. Start and idle the engine.
  6. Ensure that the engine is operating on CNG by observing that the fuel indicator lamp (FIL) is OFF and that both the scan tool Engine Data-Alt. Fuels displays of AFO Signal and AFO Signal Command indicate the AFECM is in command of engine fueling.

    If the engine fails to operate on CNG or start at all, proceed to Step 7.

  7. Using the scan tool, select the high pressure lock-off relay special function.
  8. While the engine is operating on CNG command the lock-off relay OFF and observe the fuel tank pressure sensor data parameter.
  9. If the fuel pressure fails to decrease proceed to Step 7.

    When the engine stalls or a switch-over to gasoline is observed, perform the following:

    6.1. Turn the ignition OFF.
    6.2. Remove the CNG 20-amp fuse in order to prevent a CNG prime pulse from occurring during service.
    6.3. A small amount of CNG will remain in the fuel lines and components. Slowly open the fittings in order to release any remaining pressure when disconnecting a fuel line.
    6.4. Fuel Pressure Relief for the CNG system is now complete. Proceed to Step 12 .

    Object Number: 296441  Size: SH
  10. Close the manual lock-down screws located on both of the high pressure lock-off solenoid manual shut-off fittings by rotating the allen screws clockwise until fully seated. Holes are provided in the side of the fuel tank frame in order to allow access to the manual shut-off fittings.
  11. Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  12. Turn the ignition OFF and disconnect the negative battery cable.
  13. Caution: When relieving the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel system pressure, take the following precautions in order to prevent fire and personal injury:

       • Vent the CNG fuel system in a well ventilated work area.
       • Keep sparks, flames, and smoking material away from the area.
       • Wear the appropriate hearing protection during the venting procedure. A sudden pressure loss from an uncontrolled gas leak can cause hearing damage.


    Object Number: 296393  Size: SH
  14. Slowly loosen the fuel line fitting at the high pressure regulator (HPR) INLET port (1) several turns. Do NOT remove the fitting.
  15. If fuel is not venting with the HPR inlet fitting loosened, relieve fuel line tension by pulling the line away from the HPR.

  16. Object Number: 728542  Size: SH
  17. After fuel has stopped venting at the HPR fitting perform the following:
  18. 11.1. Slowly loosen the fuel line fitting (6) at the low pressure lock-off (LPL) INLET port (5) several turns. Do NOT remove the fitting.
    11.2. Relieve fuel line tension by pulling the line away from the LPL.
    11.3. Fuel Pressure Relief for the CNG system is complete when the fuel line (6) at the LPL inlet port (5) can be pulled away from the O-ring face seal and fuel fails to vent.

    Caution: Natural gas is stored under high pressure. If a leak occurs, the high pressure could cause a personal injury. In order to prevent Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel leaks, always replace the CNG fuel system O-rings during service.

    11.4. Replace the O-ring face seals at all fittings that were disconnected or loosened.
    11.5. After all necessary repairs are complete perform the following:
             11.5.1. Tighten any loosened fittings to the correct torque. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .
             11.5.2. Open the manual lock-down screws located on the HPL manual shut-off fittings by rotating the allen screws counterclockwise until fully seated on any vehicle that does not require venting of the CNG fuel TANKS.

    Leave the manual lock-down screws CLOSED on any vehicle that will require CNG fuel TANK venting.

    Important: If the service necessary for the vehicle requires that the ignition be turned ON with CNG components or lines disconnected, keep the CNG 20 amp fuse removed in order to prevent CNG fuel venting during an ignition ON prime pulse.

  19. If the service necessary for the vehicle requires the CNG fuel TANK be relieved of all internal pressure, refer to Fuel Tank Venting .