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SMU - Revised Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling Diagnostic

Subject:Revised Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling Diagnostic

Models:2001 Chevrolet and GMC C/K Pickup Models (Silverado, Sierra)
with 6.6L Engine (VIN 1 -- RPO LB7)



This bulletin is being issued to revise the Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling Diagnostic in the Engine Controls-6.6L sub-section of the Service Manual. Please replace the current information in the Service Manual with the following information.

The following information has been updated within SI. If you are using a paper version of this Service Manual, please make a reference to this bulletin on the affected page.

Inspection

Action

DEFINITION: Engine runs unevenly at idle. If severe, the engine or vehicle may shake. Engine idle speed may vary in RPM. Either condition may be severe enough to stall the engine.

Preliminary Inspection

    • Refer to Important Preliminary Inspection Before Starting in Symptoms-Engine Controls.
    • Search for bulletins.
    • Compare the scan tool data at idle with the scan tool data list. Refer to Scan Tool Data List.
    • Inspect the engine control module (ECM) grounds for being clean, tight, and in the proper locations.
    • Remove and inspect the air filter element for dirt or for being restricted. Refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement. Replace as necessary.

Fuel System Inspection

    • Perform the fuel injector balance test. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test with Tech 2.
    • Inspect for a restricted fuel filter. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis.
    • Inspect for a restriction in the fuel return system. Refer to Fuel Return System Diagnosis.
    • Inspect for a contaminated fuel condition. Refer to Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis.
    • Inspect for a sticking Fuel Pressure Regulator. The symptom for this condition will be an idle surge of at least 100 RPM. This surge will be from 50 RPM above Desired Idle Speed to 50 RPM below Desired Idle Speed. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis-High Pressure Side.

Sensor/System Inspection

    • Inspect for proper crankcase ventilation.
    • Inspect for an intermittent crankshaft position (CKP) sensor signal by monitoring the RPM with a scan tool.
    •  Use a scan tool in order to monitor the sensor system for unusual sensor readings. Refer to Scan Tool Data List.

Engine Mechanical Inspection

    • Inspect engine mechanical for the following:
       - Inspect the cylinder compression. Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical 6.6L.
       - Sticking or leaking valves
       - Worn camshaft lobes
       - Valve timing
       - Bent push rods
       - Worn rocker arms
       - Broken valve springs
       - Excessive oil in the combustion chamber--Leaking valve seals. Refer to Oil Consumption Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical 6.6L.
    • Inspect the following components for incorrect basic engine parts:
       - Camshaft--Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.
       - Cylinder heads--Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.
       - Pistons, connecting rods, or bearings--Refer to Piston, Connection Rod, and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.

Additional Inspection

    • Inspect the following components of the exhaust system for possible restrictions:
       - The exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes
       - The exhaust manifold for a collapsed inner wall
       - The mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure
    • Electromagnetic interference (EMI) on the reference circuit can cause an engine miss condition. A scan tool can usually detect EMI by monitoring the engine RPM. A sudden increase in RPM with little change in actual engine RPM change indicates that EMI is present. If a problem exists, inspect routing of high voltage components, such as fuel injector wiring, near the sensor circuits.
    • Inspect the park neutral position (PNP) switch circuit.
    • Inspect for faulty motor mounts. Refer to Engine Mount Inspection in Engine Mechanical 6.6L.
    • Inspect the intake manifold and the exhaust manifold passages for casting flash.