Tech Section
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Quite a few forums have an on-going thread pinned that allow everyone to post what work they did recently on their rides. I didn't see one here on C&G, so I thought I'd try to start one here. Post what you did today or during the past weekend... regardless of how tiny of a job. Let us know your victories and disasters.
Last reply by David, -
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I just read an announcement that Honda will start producing 10-speed automatic, seems GM and Ford are going that route as well. Could somebody explain to me what is the advantage of going to high number speed automatic instead of CVT? Seems to me unnecessary complexity of using so many gears.
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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Just a bad wire 1 2 3 4 7
by Camino LS6-
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...at least I hope so. The Tahoe suddenly started acting like it was only running on seven cylinders today - so I ordered new plugs,wires, cap, and rotor. Sure hope that solves it, but the truck is almost at 200k so who knows.
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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Since we got back from the road trip I've noticed a low noise coming from the engine, it sounds sort of like knocking, but not a loud knock. This happens after the engine has warmed up...when it first starts it doesn't make the noise. Like I said, it's not very loud, you can only hear it if the car is stopped and the Air is off and the radio is off. I took it to Clark Chrysler the other day for it's oil change and mentioned it, they took a look and determined it to be the lifters, and said it wasn't anything to worry about unless it got louder. I also talked to someone else who said it may be because of the oil that was in it needing to be changed, or that it's just the…
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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We have an 06 Pontiac Wave and for the past couple of months, the alarm has been going off. There is nothing around to give it a reason (no airplanes, loud noises,people, whatever). Is there a resolve? Thank you Bill
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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1998 Chevy truck with 309,000 miles. Fuel tank strap broke and the new strap also broke. Mechanic told me he couldn't promise me that the second one would hold. 3 weeks later the new strap broke also. The cross section where the fuel tank straps connect to is bad even though the frame was said to be OK. Another mechanic said it would cost too much....fuel tank would have to be removed as well as the bed.Now the strap closest to the cab is fine. So is it safe to drive the truck with a ratchet strap under fuel tank? Ratchet strap is supposed to work up to 1000 lbs. with a breaking point at 3000lbs. Roadside salt is death on car frames in northern US.
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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My Pontiac Grand Prix, irregularly, will stall out when I first start it. If it stalls, it will continue to stall unless I tickle the throttle after starting it. Once it is started I don't have any issues with it. It doesn't happen very often, but often enough to annoy me, and I have no idea where to start. Thanks!
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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This is in reference to my 2004 Grand Prix with the 3800 series III. This issue with stalling on start up seems to be pretty typical of the vehicle. I've been reading anything I can find on my Grand Prix starting issues, and I have read many other people who have had this issue and they say to clean the throttle body, because of the sensitivity to build up by the "drive by wire" throttle system. Anyone ever hear of this, or have any good ideas on how to go about cleaning the throttle body? I haven't had the time to check into anything else yet, such as testing the pressure in the fuel system, because I don't have a tool to do that with. Plus, I don't know nearly as…
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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My dad has a 1995 Ford F-150, Standard cab, long-bed, with dual fuel tanks, 4.9 liter inline-6, 5-speed, 4x4 He recently had the electric fuel pumps fail in each tank. First the front one went, he replaced that, then a few weeks later the rear one died so he replaced that one as well. He also replaced the rear fuel tank because he found one for cheap on e-bay. Now, a month or two later, the rear fuel pump appears to be failing again. When the engine is running on the rear tank, the engine sputters and has no power. Flip the switch to the front tank and the engine immediately goes back to normal. The level of fuel in the tank doesn't have any effect on the symptom. …
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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I'm quickly approaching 100K miles. I was planning to do spark plugs and wires at 100k. First off, that is when I'm supposed to do them right? Second, any good suggestions for reaching those plugs on the back bank? Any other preventative maintenance things that should be getting done around 100k? Thanks everyone!
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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When the Lt1 first came out, a big deal was made about the flow direction of the coolant, from the top, or heads on down, as an improvement in engine cooling system technology, and adding to the longevity of an engine. Now, I recently read that the LS1 & LS2 were reverted back to the old system, of coolant flow from the bottom of the engine up and out thru the heads. My question is, is this correct, and if so, why? What was the technical reasons for reverting back? The explanations for going to the heads first system made a lot of sense, and I have not heard anything about why this methodology was dropped, if in fact it was dropped. If it wasn't, then why is t…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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Hey guys, I expect to be leaving my Regal parked from mid-June until the beginning of August. I will be out of the country. I will be taking the car up to Portland but, since my Mom doesn't drive, I wouldn't even want her to start it and move it up and back a few feet to get things moving...though maybe a neighbor could do it. Still, it may wind up sitting there. I've heard that leaving them parked for that long can cause some problems. Namely, the battery may fail but more so than that, tires are supposed to get a "flat spot" or something to that effect. Is there any truth to that? What other car components could be adversely affected by being parked for a long …
Last reply by rkmdogs, -
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I'm buying this truck tomorrow and I want to know what it can pull. It's got a Class III or IV receiver on the back, no trailer brake controller (I'll get one), 350 4bbl V8, 700R4 trans, and I assume the stock 3.73 axle. 3/4 ton, 4x4, what can it do?
Last reply by occupant, -
A quick question for those who are good with tires... I'm looking for a good, solid tire for the wife's Cavalier. Nothing fancy, though I wouldn't mind a little extra grip. I'm not looking at pricey tires, private brands are fine as long as they are solid.... You have to remember, they are for a Cavvie... I was just at Wal-Mart, and found Goodyear Vivas for 60 buck each, and they did not look bad.... I;m going to be looking for tires for the Balt' soon too, though I'm considering Firestone right now...the Contis on it now suck big time..... I'm wondering about what I should consider.....I could just go to Belle Tire or something like that, but it' snice to k…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I just purchased a 2006 Lucerne CXL with everything (ALMOST)! I have the 6 disk CD player but no XM radio. Is it a possibility that GM might have had the foresight to make this radio upgradable? It has the CAT button for XM radio; when you press it, states XM feature. Can you purchase some type of module to upgrade it to XM without all the add on crap? I am sure it is not, but it would be a great feature for those of us who purchase off the lot and then want to upgrade the radio in the dash to XM because the dealer was not bright enough to order XM on it. If anyone has a recommendation without all the add on's I would appreciate it tremendously. It has the antenna …
Last reply by CARBIZ, -
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So one of my items on the "need to fix" board is the 2004 Grand Prix GTP, which is currently sidelined due to a pinhole leak in one of the power steering lines. Not the lines to the rack, but one of the steel lines ON the rack... which I have found that nobody actually makes replacements for. Not wanting to pay for a new rack when this one is otherwise fine, and not wanting to drop the frame to swap out a rack, I have been investigating other ideas... The 2004 apparently has "Magnasteer II". Earlier models had just "Magnasteer". However, when I source parts (from Rock Auto, for example) the note that RPO NV8 (Magnasteer) and NV7 (variable assist) use the same rack un…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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Assuming that fairly regular maintainance was performed, how long can/will the 3100 V6 run? Is 200k miles unrealistic? Thanks in advance
Last reply by NDL, -
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So, I'm still on the verge of buying a '97 Tahoe. Its a little rougher than I thought... but I think a good cleaning and a little work will make it a decent ride. First, when I was looking at the truck, neglected to check out the SPID. Once I got home, I found out that GM used 3 different whites for 1997. Anyone know (or know a site that lists) what color availability the Tahoe's had in 1997? Next, what interior parts interchange between the 2-door and 4-door Tahoes? I assume the dash does... but it looks to me that the rear seat and front seats are special. I know I can get piecemeal replacement leather seat sections, but it gets kinda pricy. I also imagine that …
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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If I start my car and let it warm up for 2 min in the cold weather it slips very bad. I have to rev it up to 4000 rpm just to get the car to move But if i start my car and take off right away. I dont get the transmission slipping problem. I did have the transmission fluid change but not the filter. its a 99 malibu with a 2.4 thanks
Last reply by fightingbee, -
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I know that when this technology was newer, the cast iron block and aluminum head could be a problem if the engine ever overheated and it warped the head gasket. I know of a friend's parents with a Thunderbird this happened to. However, I don't hear much about this anymore. The Chevy V6s, 3.1, 3.4, 3.5, 3.9 are all cast iron block/aluminum head. Most engines are like this now. Only the 3800 and a few others remain as iron block/iron head. Do you think this is a cause for concern? Have they addressed the fact that a car can run a little hot? Any thoughts or opinions?
Last reply by razoredge, -
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So the oher day my girlfriend was at a drive-thru in the Intrepid waiting on food when the car stalled (oil light came on but that was the only light). Later that day I waspicking my brother up from work, and was at a stoplight when it stalled on me. Just a slight shutter and then dead. Started right back up, although as I entered the highway on-ramp it reved higher than it should have, but it was fine after that. The problem is that it's been fine since then. Took it to the mechanic on Monday and they were unable to get it to stall. He suggested either the fuel pump or the timing chains. Today still no luck, and my girlfriend needed it so she picked it up and it was pr…
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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About to pick up my brand new HHR SS. We live up in Canada, and the block heater is standard on most Canadian ordered vehicles, and is used 4 or 5 days in the winter, every winter. However, there is no block heater option available on the 2.0 turbo charged engine, currently in the HHR SS and soon to be new Cobalt SS. Being new to turbos, the turbo technology seems to be the only difference between the usual normally engine. So, is the fact that its a turbo the reason that a block heater isn't a factory option? I can't imagine what it would conflict with with a turbo charger and an engine block, but there also has to be a basic reason a block heater is not an optio…
Last reply by Avinash, -
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O.K. bean-counters & you inside techies..... Let's play a hypothetical game. GM needs a new engine for a new mid-size car. What do we power it with? Decision must be based on engine build cost. Let's assume both engines would have the same displacement, and have to be a 90 degree V-configuration. What should we choose? A high tech V-6, but that has the component costs of a counterbalance shaft, to eliminate vibration, and the bearings for it to run in, and gears or a chain/belt to drive it. Or, A V-8, but that has 2 more pistons, connecting rods, and 4 more valves. But it doesn't need a balance shaft. Which would take more assembly time (labor) which has…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Anyone out there know what the SSPS light is supposed to be indicating about? It keeps coming on. My service advisor can't seem to overcome his rectal/cranial inversion long enough to give me a straight answer. For the record, I have a 2004 Chevrolet Optra LS (sold only in Canada), with 85000 kms on it.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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No it's not the oil filter or drain plug. 2000 Alero 2.4L twin cam motor. Just started leaking BAD. From underneath the car looking up, it looks like the oil is coming from somewhere around the manafold area (cam cover, head gasket???) and running down the backside of the motor. Underside of car is covered pretty good. Just went down 1 qt of oil on a 120 mile drive. Seems that if it were the head gasket I'd have coolant issues too? The back side of the cam cover just above the manifold looks a little oily but not like it does below the manifold. Whole back side of motor under manifold is covered with oil. Any thoughts before I tear into this thing? Thanks Buddy…
Last reply by I hope GMRULES again, -
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As I mentioned in another thread, the blower motor on my car went out last week. So I popped the hood, hoping the it was under there and not in some asinine place under the dash. Lo and behold, it was right there against the firewall on the passenger side, right where it should be. I left it in place (that was my first mistake) and went on my merry way to an auto part store. I go in and tell the guy what I need, he asks for the make and model, I tell him its an '89 LeSabre Estate, he types away furiously, goes to the back and comes back with a box. I look at it, and since it looks like a blower motor, I go on my way(second mistake). Its not until I get in the car an…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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I've noticed in the last few weeks my wagon has started losing power on its pick up. It struggles to get up to speed-but seems to be ok once it gets there-until I have stop again. I was planning to replace the pcv valve, fuel filter-possibly the IAC. But I've noticed that it really gotten worse as it has finally warmed up. But I'm wondering- could the cat be causing most of these issues? (After BV's Fire' and my dad bringing it up-it got me thinking) The car has hadsome bad gas in it's life-even had some a few months ago (thanks, BP. ) And the Cat has never been replaced, which is now over 140,000 miles. What do you guys think?
Last reply by NINETY EIGHT REGENCY, -
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I have a quick question. Every now and then I get a metallic grinding sound from the engine (3100 V6). It came back yesterday, and its really loud/not going away. Engine runs great, and damn near perfect. I noticed that the AC compressor wheel is spinning properly, but the outer wheel part moves a bit (er, spins kinda, in steps). Im guessing thats the problem? It sounds like the one in this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBiQNgQUJlI That person says AC clutch bearing going bad. Is that what might be happening to mine? Is it safe to keep driving with this issue, or can this eventually seize and screw over the belt? http://www.aa1car.com/library/200…
Last reply by !!!TED!!!, -
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This is not exactly auto related, but I can see some instances where you might want it. I need to make some 7/16ths square holes in some 1/4 steel for carriage bolts on a project I am working on. My current idea was to drill 7/16th holes then use some kind of angled abrasive to notch the corners, but considering I need to do 6-10 of these holes, that could take some serious time. Plus I am no finding abrasives that will really suit my needs. I'm seeing different kinds of square punches online, but I assume these need a 100 ton press or something, and most do not list what thickness they will punch through. If anyone has a good idea, let me know. My backup plan is to…
Last reply by 67impss, -
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How does one buy "used tires"? The crappy Hankooks on my '07 AURA XE are pretty much done - the lease isn't up until November and there's no way I'm going to spend my money (not that I have much left to spend) on a new set of tires for a car I won't be owning for much longer. If money was plentiful, my plan was to take my wife's G6 17k milesHankook tires (same as on the AURA) and put them on the AURA, and then get her a nice set of the Goodyear Assurance TripleTred tires - but that would run me around $600!! So that plan is out and now I want to get a decent set of used tires that will be 'good enough' to return the lease in 3 months. Do I just call local tire places,…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I'm trying to figure out what's going on with my Wife's Century, with the 3100V6. The car has been running hot for the past four months - with the temp needle going 3/4 of the way towards H. I recently replaced the thermostat, which seemed to have helped for a week, but now it's running hot again. Here's the thing that puzzles me: The temperature of the motor is affected by highway speed. In other words, the car will run hot @ 55 mph - yet the engine should be running at only 2,000 rpm's (nevermind all of the fairly cold air rushing through the radiator). Now that it's getting warmer, I plan on flushing the system, and seeing if that helps a bit. The fan is wor…
Last reply by Buickfosure, -
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I have a 2006 Pontiac G5 with the 2.4 VVT Ecotec. At about 1500kms, I started to get a startup noise that sounds eerily like piston slap from a GM V6 or V8. I wasn't aware that the Ecotec also suffered from this. Anyone else have this misfortune on the Ecotec?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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This is actually a serious inquiry. the Aztek turned 105k this week and I am generally faced with the possibility of needing to keep the vehicle for quite awhile. Good, since its a slight few payments left and its all mine. WOO HOO. Anyways, it's been great so far. Good on gas (prob avg 21-22 mpg over the life of the vehicle). Immense utility. Great errand hopper and road trip vehicle. Quiet and comfortable. Oil changes, one set of tires, one brake job, radiator and tranny flushes for maintenance. Only.....ONLY...... repairs on the vehicle to date have been the two front wheel bearings, done under warranty. Also a recall on a wiring harness. THAT'S IT. …
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Ok, I;ve been thinking (watch out! :AH-HA_wink: ) I'm getting ready to switch oils in the Cobalt. The Balt has been running Quaker State dino up till now. But I think it's time for an upgrade. I would like to drop Mobil 1 in, but since I didn't break the car in (and guessing not easy either), and the milage (around 40k), I don't want to deal with the hassles of going full Syn..... So I have decided to go with a syn blend- either Valvoline Durablend or Castrol Snytec Blend. I wanted to know what you guy/gals thought....which brand do you use? And if so, do you like it? Right now, the Balt does mostly city driving, hence my reason for more protection... Th…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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There are two sounds my car is making and I'm curious as to what they could be/what could be causing them. First of all, I'm driving a 1992 Buick Century Special, 3300 V6, 4A. Tomorrow morning's commute will make me pass 106,000 on my odometer. Sound #1: If you were to take your cell phone, put it on vibrate, place it on a tray and call it, this would be the sound. A metallic, vibrating sound. Oddly enough, it's not really present at a dead stop or park. It's mostly prominent at low speeds (probably because I can't hear it at high speeds). It comes from under the hood. Sound #2: A whirring sound that's getting louder and louder as time goes on. Say you dr…
Last reply by jjf76, -
K & N?
by capriceman- 30 replies
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I was wondering about getting a K&N Air Filter but i dont know if its worth the money? Do any of you out there have one? Since $40 bucks is alot for one. But I have been looking at one. E 1500 is the one i need. But Since friday i got some Flowmasters put in the Caprice. it was about $300 dollars. since i need a new muffler any way why not go all out. Also I increased the Exhaust by a 1/2 inch. Now the Car Has alot more go. Im just wondering about going with a performance air filter.
Last reply by capriceman, -
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Ok, so we had the Honda CR-V in the back yard over the weekend. It was a slight upward incline, on slightly wet grass. I tried to move the car a bit further up and instead of crawling up the hill, I just spun the front tires.. the rear never engaged. I tried backing and pulling forward. I reached the same spot with the same result, forward tires spinning, no motion from the rears. Zero unusual noises. Am I not getting something about all wheel drive? Did Honda not understand the concept? Or is it going to the dealer service department next week?
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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So I want to see if the `86 Caravan will start up. It's been sitting in the driveway for at least 3 year and 2 years since it was started. Here's what I know: It has no coolant...bone dry in the reservoir and the radiator. Checked the oil and the oil on the dipstick seemed very thick...like molasses. No idea about the condition of the gas in the tank. Does anyone have advice on the procedures for prepping it for startup?
Last reply by !!!TED!!!, -
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So I'm having some issues with the steering. When I brake from from highway speed, steering starts from around 100km/h, slight vibration, then larger vibration at around 60-50km/h, then vibration damps out. Slight pulsation of the brake pedal at around the same speeds, same intensity variation as well, but very slight. It doesn't seem to happen if I'm braking at low speeds, only highway. I did some basic diagnostics, rotated the tires and checked the tire pressure, doesn't seem to cut it. My rotors and brake pads are pretty new as well, got a new set on all 4 wheels last Summer. Any ideas what might be wrong? Thanks.
Last reply by pow, -
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I have never owned or ridden in a flat engined vehicle but have found myself very intrigued recently by them, both the Porche flat 6s, Corvair flat 6's, and also the Subaru 3.0 and 3.3 flat 6's. Has anyone ever made a flat 4, a flat 6 with 2 cylinders chopped off? Would this design not be as or more stable than an I4 or a boxer 4 (like the Subaru 4's)? What about flat 8s, they sound like they would be very well balanced and be as low as flat 6's and they would have more area of combustion? Would not a flat 4/6/8 engine architecture be the most cost/engineering effective series of engines to build and package? Why aren't/haven't there been more out of the V (play o…
Last reply by Carguy, -
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About that Valium- My little electrical problem has spread beyond the ABS and Radio to the turn signals, where the electrical fault is causing the blinkers on one side to go crazy fast while the 4-Ways and Right Turn Signals are fine. I've already checked the obvious (bulbs/Fuses) once again, and everything is fine. So now depending on where my foot is on the floor, my turn signals might work, or they might not. It gets more interesting- now, intermittently, when I lock or unlock the power locks, the locks go crazy and they unlock, lock, unlock, and lock again in random succession. I have to wait for them to stop to be able to gain access to the car from the outsid…
Last reply by vonVeezelsnider, -
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Within the next few months, I plan to do some "update" work on my cars... Her Cavalier will be getting new Shocks/Struts, Brakes/Rotors, and new tires..... I've been debating about going with GM (dealership) parts, or more aftermarket ones. I'm really looking for stuff that is going to last, and I have been disappointed in how long the car's current stuff is holding up.... - Both struts and shocks are pretty rough for 45k -this will be the second pad/rotors in 40k (though it is common for the 03-05s) Should I stick with the same, or change?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Well, not dead, but certainly out of commission. The water pump $h! the bed, and so it's leaking antifreeze like crazy. Needs to hoses apparently too. That ;eaves us down to 1 car, the Prizm. What's wrong with my car? Absolutely nothing, but I can't drive it and neither can anyone else because my car insurance got canceled, which is another rant for another thread. So...sucks ass. I wonder where teh water pump is on the 2.5...
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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I was having this discussion with a few people on Friday. GM essentially bought up some independent motor companies (Olds, Buick) to create their large entity and kept their strong divisional thinking for decades after that. Up until the 1970s, FOUR divisions of GM made a 350 small block V8 engine. Essentially, it was each division except Cadillac. Rank these 4 (Chevy, Pontiac, Olds, Buick) in your order of preference: 1, 2, 3, 4 - for whatever reason, such as longevity, materials, intake, exhaust, general configuration (for repair, access), whatever you decide ...
Last reply by David, -
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A coworker of mine asked me if I knew anything about Caprices and electrical problems. I told him that I'm no mechanic, but know plenty of people online that I could ask (um, that means you guys!). He has a 1991 Chevy Caprice with the 305 V8. He was given this car by his uncle about 7 years ago. When his uncle owned it, right before giving it away, the radio was replaced due to being shorted out. John, my coworker, had to replace the radio again about two years after he got it. The first indication of an electrical problem (other than the shorting of the radio) was that the door locks would hum & vibrate - until he turned the car off. The latest issue he has is…
Last reply by NOS2006, -
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So yesterday I dropped my beloved Marie (1984 Celebrity wagon) off at the Chevy dealer because she was making a grinding sound as if her brakes had gone bad. Upon inspection they noted that the entire rear drum brakes had fallen apart due to age and cancer. They are unable to locate replacements and at this point she is labeled undriveable. I am friends with the owner of the dealer and have full confidence in them telling me the truth, have had no luck finding the part myself, don't want junk yard parts as they will only have the same problem and love the car to much just to give up on her. Anybody have ideas on how to get new parts for the old car? Maybe converting …
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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Have you ever wondered by all the Bi-turbo V6 engines are always less impressive than you expect? Specific Output always seem to be worse compared to 4-cylinder counterparts. Maximum Torque seems to always arrive later and the engine always seem a tad lethargic. In short, they always seem to SUCK relative to the 4-cylinder turbo engines the same manufacturer puts out. They really SUCK compared to Inline-6 legends like the Nissan RB26 or the contemporary BMW N55. For example:- GM made a 2.0T (LTG) with 272 hp @ 5,500 rpm with 260 lb-ft at 1,700 rpm. That is 136 hp/liter and 130 lb–ft per liter. This same engine is later tuned to permit more mid-range boost with t…
Last reply by dwightlooi, -
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a year ago Someone at autotire told me my water pump weep hole was leaking coolent. Where is the weep hole on this car? I cant even find the water pump. I have not had to add any coolent to this car. was to guy just trying to make some money? its a 99 malibu 2.4 with 78.000 miles. thanks
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Article from Yahoo that makes GM seem almost cutting edge.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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I've noticed the wagon has been sluggish lately, and running pretty rough. But since it has starting getting colder the last few days, it somehow seems to run better... The idle isn't as rough, a bit more pick up (not much) and pretty much stays that way even after running for a while. It weird that it is affected by weather... Could it be a sensor? Everything else Haven't checked all hoses yet, though) I've been betting on the EGR... What do you guys think? Ask me anything....
Last reply by capriceman, -
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2001 Oldsmobile Alero with 3.4 v6 4 speed auto Car will turnover but will not fire, does not occur all the time, but intermitently. So some does it starts up just fine but on others it won't start at all.
Last reply by ddienster, -
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Anyone here use it; and is it really worth the extra change? I'm thinking about switching the Camaros to Royal Purple. I haven't done so yet because of the limited miles they're driven. Royal Purple seems to be geared more towards high stress engines (racing, etc.) than cruisers. Comments?
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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Just have a quick question-anybody use this oil? Kendall SynBlend motor oil? I've been looking for ways to cut back (to save money), and I've decided that I'm going to cut back for the Cobalt. I'm still putting Mobil 1 in the Cav, And NAPA Full Synthtic (Valvoline Synpower) in the other car. Anyways, I've been consider running a blend in the Cobalt, because the Mobil 1 in it currently really is not doing that much for the car. Even the operating temp has not changed (like the Cav, which runs cooler at op temps now) Kinda interesting, considering it is the same engine.....granted, the Balt was running Quaker State dino up until 35k......... BUT, I still want t…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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So far we've been through 2 full tanks of gas since owning the car. The first tank got 218 miles on it...divide that by 17 and the car got a mediocre 12.8 mpg. Considering this is the base V6 I'm scared to think what the 3.0 and 3.5 would get! In it's defense, this was mostly city driving. So far, on the second tank of gas I've got 250ish miles on the odometer with still gas left. This was more highway-like driving, since I took it to school this past week. Still, I don't think I'll break 20 mpg on this tank. What makes me sad is that Saturn's big new Outlook gets 20 mpg average in a mix of driving (according to Autoweek) So, and suggestion on way to improve fuel eco…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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...Do I add fluid to the transmission of the Cutlass?! I searched endlessly under the hood and could not find anything other than the dipstick. Am I missing something?
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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Well now, I'm not sure whether I'm posting this in the right place, but here goes nothing. Having been around this forum for a while now, one question keeps popping up in my head... Is it really true that the majority of people in the USA actually don't fit their cars with any kind of snow tires in winter? Because it sure sounds that way after reading some of the posts here, especially ones where people are discussing rwd vs fwd. Someone actually said that fwd is better because noone has the money to switch to a different set of tires in the winter season!! (actually implying that fwd cars on summer tires in winter do anything else than plow straight …
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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What was the stock P.S.I. for a typhoon?
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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Understanding Batteries – Why so many cells? Have you ever wondered why some EV batteries have thousands of cells? Why the Volt’s battery is so big even though it was “only” 16 kWh? Can you actually save about half the money if you have a 50 kWh battery instead of a 100 kWh pack? (1) Cells and batteries: Before we get started, let’s get the terminology right. A “cell” is the smallest element in a chemical charge storage device. A “battery” is a bunch of cells strung together. The 1.5V AA Duracell is a “cell”. A pack with four of them strung together for a total of 6V in your flashlight referred to as a “battery”. (2) EV Batteries: A lithium ion EV…
Last reply by dwightlooi, -
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I was talking to Sixty8 today, and mentioned that I'd like to start up the `69 and move it out of the garage. The problem is that the car hasn't run in 2 years...the last time it was driven was in the fall of `05. Since then it's been in the garage (at least it's level). There is a concern I have...I remember their being a fluid leak...however I can't remember if it antifreeze or something else. If it is antifreeze I'm worried the block may have cracked during one of the winters. So I have a few questions Does anyone know how to pop the hood on a `69 Barracuda? I've done it before but it was a while ago...and I remember it being a pain...but I forget what to do. When…
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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Can't you tell I'm psyched? So, my Cavalier really needs to take a big Valium... I think it's emotionally distraught. Not even a month out of a 500$ Water Pump job, now the following things have gone wrong with my car... -Wiper Arm broke off in my hands under gentle application ( ) -Gas Gauge stuck at full, will no longer move. -Radio Dead due to wiring issue (loose Connection?) under driver's side floor -ABS Light going on and off depending on where my left foot is. -Radio Sometimes Works depending on where my left foot is. So to sum things up, I'm going back to the dealer for another service appt (double ), I've got no tunes, sometimes no ABS, Limit…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Any of you guys had the pleasure of replacing a bearing/hub assembly? It seems I'll be doing that for the first time soon. Recently the car has been making scraping noises coming from the front passenger wheel when turning left near full lock. I thought it might have been the dust shield making contact with the rotor but that's not the case. Had to drive the car 70 miles or so today, 10 of which on the highway and by the end it sounded much worse, especially coming off the highway. By then it would make noise wheel driving straight. The wheel on the side in question was much warmer, basically hit, compared to the other wheels or even the brake caliper. After sitting fr …
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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The new 'Sport' model comes with the 6 speed and 3.6L which would be a nice increase in power for an older 'Nox' or Torrent. I've been unable to locate pictures of the motor to ascertain the mount placement, exhaust routing..... to see if it's fesible. Any thoughts since the body is great but I've got 160,000kms(100k miles) and she'll need a freshening up.
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Guys, I have the distibutorless ignition on my Series I 3800 FWD Buick V6. 3 pods of 2...so to speak. I need to replace spark plug wires. It looks easy to do, but is it? The fronts are staring me in the face. The rears...are they hard to get to in the back of the engine compartment over the intake manifold cover? Also, are there are tricky clips or gymnastics as they go over and through the intake manifold area? Any help is always appreciated!
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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I know there are a few of you who have one of the 3800 engines in your cars. What kind of real world fuel mileage are you seeing? Highway and city? I'm pondering a Riviera as there are a couple decent ones available locally. Also, am I correct in thinking that the mid/late 90's 3800 suffered the infamous intake(?) gasket failure problem which the 3100's suffered? TIA!
Last reply by jwbouch, -
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HOWS IT GOING OUT THERE? I'M NEW TO THE CLUB. I HAVE A 2001 IMPALA, 3.4L. IT SOMETIMES HESITATES ON TAKE OFF, AND WILL SHAKE LIKE ITS MISFIRING AT HIGH SPEED, FROM 60MPH AND HIGHER. MOSTLY AT A STEADY SPEED. INSTALLED NEW PLUGS AND WIRES,COILS,FUEL FILTER,FUEL PUMP, THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR, AND VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR. STILL HAVE SAME PROBLEM.HOPE SOMEONE CAN HELP, THANKS
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Amazing what we did for marketing during the early console days. What other ads can you find?
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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The vinyl on the dashboard has begun to separate at the bottom of the dashboard...i.e. above the emergency brake pedal on the driver's side and, on the passenger side, below the glove box, where it sweeps back into the area where the lower a/c ducts are located. I can tell there was some old glue between the vinyl and the dash because I can feel the bumps with my fingers. It's only noticeable to me, since most people wouldn't look at the bottom edge of the dashboard...and the car is 17.5 years old. A few questions: How do I reattach the vinyl that is beginning to separate? What is the name of the type of adhesive that is used? Where do I get it? Any tips on the p…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Hey guys, Do you know if it is possible to add steering wheel-mounted audio controls to the new body style 2007 Chevy Silverado without the convenience package because I am looking at at truck that doesn't have it equipped. This doesn't bother me other than the fact it doesn't have steering wheel audio controls. If I happened to get my hands on the audio control module that goes onto the side of the steering wheel, can I just plug it in? Sometime on these sorts of things the wiring is all in place, they just don't give you the actual module without the proper package. Is this the case with steering wheel-mounted audio controls? I am looking at a LT1 Crew Cab if tha…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Okay all of you mechanically-inclined and talented posters, I've got a question for you. My wife's car is around 13k and we're approaching 11 months of ownership. I've been reading here and there articles or statements saying that GM's Dexcool Coolant is known to cause problems for radiators and engine parts (plastics, I think). Some sources have suggested removing the orange Dexcool coolant and replacing it with the traditional green coolant. If today's (or should I say 2008's) Dexcool coolant is not good for longevity, and since we plan on owning this car for quite some time (7 years maybe?), I was wondering if I should go ahead and get this done now. If so, what i…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Since Ocn is in the biz I figured he would know, but anyone with info please share. So I'm looking at photos of my car and I have to say...they depress the hell out of me. The driver's side looks terrible. There's the scrapes in fender and front door from when it was hit by a POS Protege, there's the scrapes left by that Integra that hit it, and over the winter someone scraped it further with the snow blower. The replacement door is an improvement over the huge dent the original had, but it got scraped from the snow blower too. As well, I'm not sure if the door or the rub strip or both are misaligned...but I hate it so much. Also the paint shades are different. The r…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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So this nasty ass f@#ker of a storm has claimed a victim. Apparently this morning my mom was trying to get out of the driveway, which was plowed in with now frozen snow and ice. Had it in reverse and was trrying to get out. I woke up and came out to help...teh car was out of teh driveway but now sideways on the icy hill. I'm the one who always gets to drive teh cars in winter weather, so it was up to me to get it out of the way. This was easy...I put in in reverse again, gentle on the gas, and slowly backed out to teh opposite side of teh street. Then I put it in first and went down the hill then around the block. Since the GM has snow tires I took it out to meet with m…
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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So I today I decided to check the fluids in all the cars and I noticed the Intrepid needs oil (no surprise from what I've been reading). Anyway, I went out and bought some oil for it, but now I'm wondering what's in there: synthetic or natural oil? How can I tell the difference? It's possible the last owner switched it to synthetic oil to avoid sludge buildup the 2.7L is so notorious for. I'm pretty sure bad things would happen if I pured regular oil in and it had synthetic inside already. Help would be appreciated! (especially so I can get it done tonight). Also, when it comes time to change the oil, and after the engine has been steam cleaned (because oil was found on…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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So, since it was actually above freezing today and the rain had ended, I decided to talking the badly worn alternator belt on the Prizm. First let me say, if I ever met the engineer in charge of the engine bay design I'll kick him in the balls. The front of the engine is so close to the inner fender that I can barely fit my hand between them. This makes getting a ratchet onto the locking bolt extremely difficult and annoying. You can't see the bolt, you have to fee l around for it. Once I got a ratchet on the bolt, it moved in tedious one lick increments because there's so little room to move before hitting either the pulley or the a/c lines. So I loosen it, then loose…
Last reply by Satty, -
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i cannot believe the improvement that a couple of cheap mods have made to my 2003 pontiac bonneville. its a 3800 series two engine. 1. Amsoil synthetic oil 2. K&N air filter 3. Taylor hi performance spark plug wires. man, the acceleration is incredible. the sound out the back and under the hood is a little stealthier too. i am not blowing smoke here. it is truly noticable. i'd like to know where i can get the car tested (in the detroit area) for torque and horsepower. i think the factory spec on this is 205. i was going to put on a borla muffler but i am not sure how much more you can do to improve it. i am running 89 octane, now.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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...cat-back exhaust systems for my 1995 Tahoe 2-door. I would like to find a dual-outlet system, and though I have seen these trucks with such systems, I can't seem to find them listed anywhere. I have seen systems like that listed for shortbed/regular cab pickups - I'm guessing that these will fit, no?
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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As you may know, my engine conversion went well besides the junk radiator nearly destroying everything. Managed to get the gunk out of the oil, it checks clear every time now. However it's still in the cooling system. The day it happened a garden hose was used for 2 hours to get it out, but while a lot it out, there's still goop showing up. Is there a cleaner to get this out? Or can a shop get it out? Monday I may just take it down and see, but preemptive advice would be appreciated. Once this is taken care of and I replace the plenum, I should be all set, but it just sucks that a $h!ty radiator caused this unnecessary mess. Next time I'm buying …
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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As some of you know, I recently did my first brake job on the Mustang. I pulled the spindle nut to replace the rotors and then re-installed the spindle nut. Here's the catch: I merely tightened the spindle nut with a socket set instead of a torque wrench. I did this by letting a friend hold the socket and wrench and me almost standing on it. (literally) I'm 330lbs, so that's probably a lot of pressure. The official number is 258 ft/lbs. So, should I pull the wheels off and use a torque wrench on the nuts? I can't get a straight answer from anyone. One mechanic says that EVERYTHING needs to be torqued, another mechanic and a guy at the parts house says just hand tighten…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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So this is getting a little worrisome... It all started back in late October, I had the Cavalier in to the dealer to have it inspected before the snow flew and about 2 days after I got it back, I was driving home and the coolant light came on. When the engine was nice and cold, the coolant was just about an inch below the "Full Cold" line. I took it back to the dealer and talked to the service manager, he decided to fill it for me himself because it should have been checked... so he filled it up for me en gratis and it seemed fine, but now, on my way home, again the coolant light came on, so when I got home and the engine cooled off, sure enough, coolant is almost an…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Looks like someone wants a piece of the pie. I've seen numerous ads the last few days (print-now TV), where Valvoline is claiming that their syn oil is better than Mobil 1. They claim that it noy only wears better, but will last longer... It kinda suprised me.....usually Valvoline keeps to themselves.....so I wonder why the big claim there..... I wonder if Wallyworld will claim that their oil is better the Mobil 1 too? What do you guys think?
Last reply by gmpartsgirl, -
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I wasn't sure where to post this, but it could be an interesting thread..i.e. features in a new car that no one offers currently today. While driving around earlier today, I realized that I'd really like to have TiVo capabilities for car audio...that is, the ability to pause live radio, back up, record it, play it back, etc. I do listen to a fair amount of talk radio (NPR and Air America) and inevitably, I don't hear an entire broadcast because of timing (or running errands--hop out of the car for 15 min, come back and have missed 15 min of a broadcast). No car maker offers features like this currently that I'm aware of.
Last reply by Oracle of Delphi, -
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My step-son took his '98 Buick Regal LS with the 3.8L Series II V6 to the local Oil Change/Car Wash place because his low coolant light kept coming on. They flushed his engine with the pressure machine, put in new coolant, and replaced his "rusty" fuel filter. He left the place and the car was shaking like it wanted to stall out - the Service Engine Soon light was flashing, he said. I told him to meet me at the local Advance Auto Parts store so they could do a free OBDII code read. He got code P0300 - random multiple misfire (they said it would need to go to a mechanic). Tried to restart the car and it wouldn't crank over. Pushed it into a parking spot and left it t…
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A friend of mine has a '01 Silverado that has just started to make a loud and "oh so very not happy" RPM related tapping sound when the engine is cool/cold. Noise appeared to go away when the engine heated up, and to his backyard mechanic's ear, it sounded like a sticky lifter, loose valve lash or other valve train related problem. As he had some other work to be done on his truck that required some professional expertise, he took the truck to a GM dealer workshop. He was totally not expecting the cause of the "valve train" noise to be driveline related, namely a cracked flex plate. GM used to be notorious for blowing flex plates. I'd like to think they've changed, bu…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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I know nothing. I have an old Sony deck that's about 8 years old and my speakers are worn out in my car. I want to get new speakers to just replace my OEM ones and a new deck with USB connection and AUX jack for my ipod and sirius. anybody have suggestions? Also, if the lights can be red, it would be helpful to match my 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix GT Sedan
Last reply by balthazar, -
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Recently experiencing overheating problems, my fan seems to be turning on just fine, radiator is filled an working and so is the waterpump yet it still overheats? If anyone could help me with a solution or direction to look for my issue I'd be eternally grateful. For extra information: The car doesn't overheat while idling, only on the highway after driving for about 30 minutes. I'm almost sure there's something electrical going completely haywire.
Last reply by Thed, -
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Yes sirs, my new truck is in. 2007 Sierra regular cab shortbed 2WD. It's a goodlooking truck, to be certain, however, the rear end sits a bit too high for me, it has a definite rake. Lowering blocks seem to be a simple solution. Question for anyone who knows: If my truck has progressive rate springs, that means the more pressure that is put on them, the harder they'll ride, correct? Do lowering blocks compress the springs? Can I install a set of 2" lowering blocks to level the ride height of my truck without affecting the ride? Sorry to sound like a dummy, but this is out of my line of experience. Thanks in advance!
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Ok, I have the Regal with the 3800 V6 Series I 1992 that now has original mileage in the high 200,000s. Incidentally, they have no EGR valves. I will soon have to go get its emissions test to renew the tags. Here's the deal. In most states that I've lived in and in which the car has been registered, they test 4 emissions components (HC, CO, CO2 and O2). In California, they add NO (nitrogen or nitrous?). At any rate, the car has performed fantastically on the first 4 components...extremely clean and changed minimally over the years. However, it's not as clean on the N.O., though it has always passed. I heard that this is common: cars run clean on all the others and …
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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Where in the hell is the starter on the Northstar 4.6 starter in a cadillac XLR helping out one of my friends replace it. Me and him went through a 12 pack of beer searching for it. I'm so confused right now... Where is it????
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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I'm wss just wondering what I should be looking for if my EGR is going... The car lacks pickup, idles rough, and is getting SUV gas milage..... It seems that I'm replacing a good piece of the fuel system...as I have already replaced the MAP sensor, and fuel pump, fuel filter.... Help...please.... 93 Cav, 3.1, 135k....
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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Okay, so this is not a new thing, but I have mentioned to my brother that I have a leak in my trunk. It's not just a leak... everything is SOAKED! For example, if I put a plastic shopping bag in the trunk, take it out an hour later, the entire bag would be soaked and the contents inside would be damp/wet as well. And this is when it hasn't rained in days too. He said he's never seen anything that bad. Even in the summer it's like this. Again, it's not a little water, it's every inch of the trunk. Now, I'm not really concerned with it since I'll probably get rid of the car in a year. Here ya go: I'm not exactly sure why he took pictures of my engine compar…
Last reply by Paolino, -
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I have a 2011 Dodge Charger that I bought in September. Since September, I have had to put 3 batteries in my key fob for the push button start to work. Any idea what would cause the battery to go dead so quickly? Should I buy a battery from Chrysler instead of Target? Or will that not make any difference? I know a few of you on here have Chargers, do you have the same problem?
Last reply by Blake Noble, -
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I just checked the engine oil in my new 2008 Saturn Vue 3.6L V6. I have just shy of 2800 miles on it and the engine oil is super dark. The oil in my old Jimmy with 136000 miles on it was never as dark as this. Do you think this is just because the engine is new and being broken in? The other thing I find odd - it seems like there's too much oil in the engine; It goes way up the dipstick past the 3 circles. (keep in mind the car has been sitting still all night). I'm thinking about taking it over to the Boob Lube and getting it changed now. I'm taking it on a road trip to Buffalo next week and I don't really want trouble. Opinions?
Last reply by PurdueGuy, -
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I’m looking for some help with an engine swap project. I’m transplanting a 1994 5.7/350 from a Suburban into my 1990 Toy rock crawler. The install has been a bit of a challenge but the engine and drive train are in the truck. I’m happy to share the mechanical learning points on this swap with anyone interested. I have a reasonable amount of mechanical experience but this is my first bout with a fuel injection swap. The current problem I have is that the engine won’t start. I’ll describe what we have done so far and would appreciate any guidance or hints that may help me get it running. Facts: . 5.7/350 TBI engine from a 94 Suburban . Factory wiring harness in e…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Anybody know these off the top of their head ? Im looking for the engine that was used in the last of the B bodies. It was LT1 correct ? Well please set me straight and let me know the specs. HP, Torq, RPM's and even mileage if thats possible.
Last reply by rkmdogs, -
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As many of us work on their own vehicles and love fixing their cars, this is a general question to help some starters like me who would like to do the same. What are the essential tools and equipment one should have to perform most of the work on his vehicle/s? And what are the recommendations for brands, quality, what-not, etc.
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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First, I usually don't do this. I used to bring Castrol or Valvoline to gas stations to have my oil changed not expecting much of a credit back. I have a friend who does often and I think it's tacky if the part is easily sourced. I'm in a situation where some parts are available on line, they are becoming less available in retail channels, AND, a few months back, one mechanic said. 'Why don't you bring in the parts?' It's a small shop. They don't even have an alignment rack. This small mechanic's shop gets real good reviews. What are the pros and cons of this? What would happen if there was a warranty issue in terms of fixing the problem (the part was a du…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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A friend of a friend is restoring his very rare 400,4spd. special edition Trans Am. The car only has 21k original miles and they are doing a concours-level resto on it. So, I am trying to help find a source for an NOS exhaust system for it. Here is an excerpt from an e-mail they sent me with the original GM part numbers: help us locate an N.O.S.- exhaust system for my 1978 Pontiac Trans Am with the Pontiac 400 engine. Here is the needed info: Front Y-Pipe 10002881 Y-pipe behind catalytic convertor 10003452 Resonator 10002882 Resonator 10002883
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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I was on GMBuyPower.com, pricing out a Solstice and was basically trying to figure out ways to get one with payments no higher than $350 a month (we currently pay $406 a month for my wife's 06 Escape, and I'd like to keep the payments on MY vehicle at least $50 less, if not more). I've never driven a car without ABS, so I'm not sure what its like to not have it, and I've also never driven a car WITH LSD, so I have no frame of reference there either. What are the advantages, and conversely, disadvantages to having these two options? Thanks!
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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I'm usually right on with most of my stuff, but even this kinda surprised me...which begs me to ask the Question: How many do you guys use a Delco oil filter? I'm usually a Delco man myself, but within these last few rounds of oil changes, the filter themselves don't seem to last very long any more..... I was wondering if anybody knew if they changed em' or something.. Granted my wife does a good amount of city driving, but I expected the Mobil 1 inside to be a heck of a lot cleaner after 3k on the oil... My buddy used a Pululator (sp, I know) One filter, does almost the same amount of driving after 3k, but his oil (the same oil) looks much, much better.. M…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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As some of you know, my mom has a 2005 Cobalt base sedan. She's had a few issues, and I want to see if anyone reading this has had similar experiences. Cloth coming out from under the pull cup in the door trim panels. Radio going into "lock" mode for no apparent reason. Resets itself with an ignition cycle. Ignition lock cylinder refusing to lock, preventing the key from being removed.
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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Ok, I admit I did a stupid thing, but man it was seriously cold. I have a 1998 Chevy Lumina LTZ with 131,000 miles on it. The car has been really good to me for the most part and still runs well. Yesterday I went to get my weekly fillup. The car burns a bit of oil, and thus I get the "change oil" dummy light far more often than I think the car needs it. (I generally change oil every 6-8k). When the oil light starts coming on, I generally start adding a quart of oil here and there until I get in for an oil change. So I pull in, start gassing up and get a quart of oil. I didn't turn the car off due to the cold (I know, bad idea). I open the hood, unscrew the cap and start…
Last reply by ShadowDog,
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