Tech Section
574 topics in this forum
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 21 replies
- 3.2k views
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, -
-
-
- 19 replies
- 3.2k views
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, -
- 1 follower
- 23 replies
- 3.2k views
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, -
- 16 replies
- 3.2k views
I think this question may have been asked before, and I probably know the answer deep down, but that's not going to stop me from asking anyway. I lowered the gas tank on the Corvette this weeked, and threw it away because it was rotted beyond repair. To my dismay there was no build sheet shoved between the tank and the body. It's not tucked under the seats or any of the other interior panels (which are out of the car). Is there any way at all to retrieve the option code information given the VIN of the car? My goal is to bring the car as close to original as possible, no matter what the effort, but if I can't do that I'll option it up the way I want to. I'll gladly prov…
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 24 replies
- 3.2k views
Usually being the techish guy, I like to make sure things get done.... Before the little bundle of joy gets here in late spring/early summer, I am planning to get a bunch of work/updates on her car so there should (I said should) be any surprises afterward (at least for a good while) She still has the Delco in her car, which will be five years in the spring. Should I think about reaplacing it before then? It's been good so far.... If it was my car, I would just wait until it dies...... But when you have a baby in there, that is not a surprise that you want............ What do you guys think? Wait a while? Just do it?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
-
- 1 follower
- 20 replies
- 3.1k views
I have a 96 Lumina with 181,000 miles on it. Since last summer when I left the car idling for 30 minutes plus I have had this annoying problem where after you run it til it is warmed up and shut it off for 20 minutes to an hour and a half or so it will run horrible.. very rough like it is either flooding or choking itself. If I am fortunate enough to keep it running(while riding the brake and gas pedal at the same time) after a couple of miles it runs fine. If I am not fortunate it will take almost the entire charge of the battery to start if I am lucky. Recently I filled it up with gas at the local gas station just to have it do the same thing but was not able to kee…
Last reply by Buickfosure, -
- 25 replies
- 3.1k views
I've been eying getting the Integrity OEM tires off the Impala in the future and I've been tire shopping. I've decided I want to have a quiet nice riding tire, and I'm willing to pay a premium. at the end of the day I'm choosing between the Goodyear Comfortred and the Michelin MXV4 Primacy which is a relatively new tire. I need something that is decent in the snow and wet as it does have to do all season duty. I know that the Michelin has a slightly shorter treadlife but probably rides better etc... My concern is would it be that much better and would it be better in the winter? I'm sure some of the tire guys here could help me make a decision. Goodyear Comfortred …
Last reply by Z-06, -
- 4 replies
- 3.1k views
Everybody knows that all these damn cars have computer chips that control every aspect of their operation. Now that gas is going to remain around $3.00 per gallon for regular, is there a replacement computer chip to maximize fuel economy? I have heard that there are performance chips out there.
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 18 replies
- 3k views
Does anyone know how to locate part numbers for older GM vehicles?
Last reply by ocnblu, -
-
- 0 replies
- 3k views
Windows 11 or Windows 10? My computer has been prompting me for a while and I keep deferring. I then hastily hit the button saying, "I do," (lol) thinking newer is better, right? Oh, no. Then I read that Windows 11 is much more restrictive, so I keep pushing back the scheduled time for this update. - - - - - First, in what ways is Windows 11 more restrictive? I've heard that it requires more sign-ins and is not that compatible with a Google browser. Second, the articles I've pulled up look confusing, but, if I wanted to, is there a way to a) disallow the update to 11, but b) still keep the updates coming for my current operating system? …
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
- 21 replies
- 3k views
even a week a go my car seemed to crank very normally, but the past few days it's seemed labored, it still starts). it's getting closer to 7 months w/o changing my oil (thinking ~2500miles is plausible), my battery, I tested, is still 12.3+V. at ~145k would the starter be going bad or is it more likely it's a loose connection...or something else? any advice? i'll also be asking my dad about it.
Last reply by CMG, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 4 followers
- 19 replies
- 3k views
I've been learning HPTuners since the beginning of the year, I'm taking it one step at a time and experimenting on my car (very carefully). Right now I'm studying AFR and DFCO. I noticed that my Malibu (3.6L VVT, DOHC, port-injected) is commanding an AFR of 14.1 while cruising and 11.9 under Power Enrichment. Everything I've read says those numbers are very rich an N/A motor, should be more like low 15s and mid 12s respectively. Anyone care to discuss this with me? Also if anyone is familiar with HPTuners, is there a simple method to bump up the commanded numbers so I can gauge any improvement? I can post the tune if someone wants to take a look.
Last reply by Thed, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 20 replies
- 2.9k views
I had to drive out to Lansing earlier and for some reason or another I got to thinking about a project I mentioned last year sometime. Say one day I do decide to restore a C3. However, I decide that I want an LS1 and T56 in it. How do people do this? Do you put an OBDII system in the C3? Do you somehow remove the OBDII and sensors from the LS1 and trans? I'm sure there are threads on a Corvette forum on this exact swap, but I'm curious how they would do that... go from old school with no electronics to new(er) school with wires up the wazoo.
Last reply by NOS2006, -
-
- 7 replies
- 2.9k views
The '98 Tahoe I bought came with one of these and I hate it! Lots of questions and no manual to answer them for this non-intuitive thing. But the main thing I want to know is how to turn off the maddening moving display! That thing is always in my peripheral vision and makes me nuts while driving. I'll eventually locate a manual for the rest of the crap, but I'd love a shortcut to eliminate the moving display and replace it with a static one. And, if anyone knows how to eliminate the bleeps when you shut -off the ignition that would be great too. This thing is very close to being thrown against a wall - really wish that the PO had left the stock unit in place!
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 19 replies
- 2.9k views
This is something I don't think I've ever posted about before, even though it's happened since I bought my Cobalt. Occasionally (I'd say once a week), I hear what has become a very familiar noise from somewhere in the back end of my car. It is exactly five quick 'knock' or 'tap' sounds, about 1/2 a second apart. It literally sounds like somebody knocking on the trunklid - the first couple of times I looked around my car to see who was knocking. It's not loud, as I notice that passengers usually don't pick up on it. I've never noticed any problem stemming from this sound occuring. It's not a problem, but I'm just curious - What could this be?
Last reply by RjION, -
-
- 16 replies
- 2.9k views
I was looking around the Chevy site at the Silverado but I don't know about the axle ratio mentioned. What is better the lower or the higher number? I guess it would depend on the use of the truck. I was going through the locate a vehicle section and reading what each one has and noticed it varies from 3.08 to 3.42.
Last reply by redtruck, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 17 replies
- 2.8k views
I waxed the 92 Regal this past weekend and got an oil change. So far, so good. Went to the train station on Monday. When I got to the parking lot after work, the door handle (spring) gave out. I had to get in through the passenger door, by unlocking the driver door through leaning over the console. What's the story with these? Easy to replace? Re-keying required? You can see most of the assembly inside the pillar. Oh well, after almost 17 years... Any help is appreciated.
Last reply by Justin Bimmer, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 6 replies
- 2.8k views
So, the Buick won't idle or run. I'll fire it up and it'll idle for a split second, then it starts running real rough and usually dies unless I give it more gas. It's almost like it has 'jumped time' but I know that's impossible since it doesn't possess a timing chain. Any ideas? I changed the fuel filter hoping that would be a cheap and easy fix. I know it probably needs a set of plugs and wires but I don't think that alone would cause it to completely crap out. Other thoughts I've had: 1) fuel pump (But the fuel pump sounds fine) 2) catalytic converter 3) O2 sensor (It has been flashing a code since we bought it.) 4) EGR valve (If I'm not mistaken, this will ca…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
-
OK, now it's warm enough to get to work on this thing. Tell me as much as possible about the idle air control valve. I'm pretty darn sure this what it is, though it's tough to get a reading on it, because a few times it tells me different parts..... I'm replacing the IAC, fuel filter, PCV....... I'm hoping this will stop the rough idle (much worse in warm weather/warming up a while), SUV gas milage (it's back), and the lack of pick-up that it has...and the fact that changing speeds (mostly slowing down) throws the check engine light on.... If this doesn't work, I'm going to assume it might be something worse....
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 12 replies
- 2.8k views
A 95 Camaro that is with the 3.4L V6. I was wondering if anyone had some tips to change the plugs. and wires. The owner is thinking of replacing Coilpack too. which i dont think is needed. The right side is easy but the left side might be done best i think if I take the Alternator off and some pointless emission crap off to.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 3 replies
- 2.8k views
Anyone ever heard of this? A friend of mine is having this problem. He couldn't get the car into park, he muscled the button in and got it into park and now he can't get it back out of park. Something is obviously broken but has anyone experienced this and do you know a work around so he can drive the thing to the dealer?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
- 21 replies
- 2.8k views
I'm not sure this been posted (at least in a while), so I thought I might throw it out....you know, being car guys (gals) and all... So, what does your car/truck/bike/wife drink? (and we are talking about motor oil here... )
Last reply by daves87rs, -
- 13 replies
- 2.8k views
I don't know how much help I'll get, this being a GM site and all, but maybe someone has delt with Chrysler's CD Changers. I have no idea how to work it or if it even works. I hooked up the stereo and CD changer to my car today to see if they worked. The Am/FM works, but the CD player doesn't...gives a disc read error every time I put a CD in. I'm not surprised since someone stuff change in the thing. The CD Changer powers up, but all that happens is all of the lights blink. I can't insert a disc in and when I press any of the eject buttons nothing happens. Meanwhile, the stereo doesn't seem to go to CD-C mode. The same button is used to toggle between the CD play…
Last reply by Cory Wolfe, -
- 4 replies
- 2.7k views
Well, this might be pointless to post right now, because I don't have much information, as this isn't my car. My boyfriends car just broke down on him, and from what he told me and the 5 minutes of research I just did, it kind of sounds like a fuel pump - which seems to be a common issue on the Cavalier? Anyone familiar with this particular problem, or know what is involved in replacing it, or if there are any tests I could do to make sure that is the actual problem, and not something else? He pulled into the driveway, and the next day he went to start it and nothing happened. He said he turns the key and it doesn't crank at all, let alone turn over. He thought the b…
Last reply by Mike The Canadian, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 2 followers
- 2 replies
- 2.7k views
You have to accept the responsibility that not everything will run cleanly and you could loose data. Microsoft now allowing Windows 11 on older, incompatible PCs Installing Windows 11 on devices that don't meet minimum system requirements - Microsoft Support
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 9 replies
- 2.7k views
I have a 2k grand am and the blower motor resistor went out. The fan will only blow on the 3, 4, and 5 settings. The part is reletively cheap and I was wondering how hard it is to replace it. Any help would be appreciated.
Last reply by I hope GMRULES again, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 8 replies
- 2.7k views
We have a 2000 Buick Century that has 36,000 miles. A couple of years ago we started using synthetic oil in it. The other day we had to have some repairs done and the dealer installed regular oil in the crankcase. We had done a synthetic change 2 months ago. When advised that the wrong oil was placed into the crankcase, the service advisor maintained that it would not do any harm to the engine. Will it?>>>>>>>>
Last reply by daves87rs, -
-
- 19 replies
- 2.7k views
A buddy of mine is trying to get me to switch my brand of oil...and he is trying to tell me it is the same exact oil. He's driving me crazy! The wife's sedan currently runs on Mobil 1 Full syn oil, which I love. My buddy wants me to switch to the Wal-Mart brand, which is much cheaper. I pay 24 bucks or so for a 5qt of Mobil 1. Wal-Mart's brand is 14 bucks for a 5qt. Now, he is trying to tell me the Mobil makes Wal-Mart's brand, which I disagree with. From what I know, Quaker State/Penzoil makes all of Wal-marts oils..... Now I do agree with him in the fact that they all offer great protection, but It would be hard to make a switch when the Mobil works s…
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 16 replies
- 2.7k views
Since getting the car out of storage the rotor on the rear passenger side has made a lot of noise, and while both rear rotors had grooves in them, the passenger side had more. Driver: Passenger: So today I had the rotors turned, and the results looked good. Lightly sanded the pads as well. Reassembled everything. Things looked pretty good although when I spun the wheels they still made some noise... Was getting ready to take it for a drive, so I pressed the pedal down a few times to seat the pads, however on the third or forth try the pedal went to the floor and a heard a "hiss". Sure enough, fluid is leaking out of the rear line on the driver's side. Terrific.…
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
-
- 18 replies
- 2.7k views
I was replacing the driver's side rear window regulator on the Mercury, was just about done, tightening the last bolt (one that holds the glass in place) did it too tight and the whole damn thing shattered everywhere. So obviously I'm pissed at myself for tightening it too tight (and too a lesser extend pissed at Ford for designing crap regulators that break all the damn time, then riveting the stupid things in place). Problem is that the car has one of those landau tops, and the part that goes on the door goes over the stupid window frame. There's no way to get the glass out or in with it there. My question is, what adhesive do they use the secure the tops? It looks ki…
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 2 followers
- 11 replies
- 2.7k views
So more and more manufacturers switching to turbo-four and turbo-six engines. We got a lot of new mainstream cars, crossovers and trucks coming out with turbo engines. Now we all know that NA four, six, and eight cylinder engines with regular oil changes can go easily 200k - 300k miles. What about turbo? How long do you think they will go without some major issues?
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 3 followers
- 5 replies
- 2.6k views
I plan to replace my old muffler with a new exhaust kit on my 2009 Ford Ranger XLT SuperCab. I am torn between a Flowmaster and a Magnaflow. What should I go for?
Last reply by furioustee, -
- 1 follower
- 9 replies
- 2.6k views
The CEL has occasionally been going on and off, and I finally went to Autozone and had the OBDII scanned. I got "coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature", which probably means a thermostat that's stuck open. I've been noticing that the temp gauge needle being suspiciously low. It's been like that for a while... so my question is, was there any damage caused by having a thermostat stuck open?
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 6 replies
- 2.6k views
Its an 03 Siera and i cant find the part number for the armrest/seat back for the front seat it hasa bench. the lid fell off the hinges broke off so i need the whole counsle assembly. if there is a part number that would be help ful or a web site that might have . thanks for your help!
Last reply by flacajun, -
- 10 replies
- 2.6k views
This is what it claims to do: I was thinking of trying it, but I wanted to know if any of you have tried it or know if it's any good or not. I've seen mixed reviews...most seem postive but a few negatives...so is it any good or just a load of crap?
Last reply by PurdueGuy, -
- 4 replies
- 2.6k views
well this past monday i did a 360 in the rain off of a soft left turn and i ripped my back axle and all those parts to pieces (i'm just ecstatic there was NO body damage) and the rims were destroyed as well. so now, the junk car that im using doesnt have rims that i want and i want to put on five spoke chrome wheels and i want the rim to be as big as possible and the tire to be as fat and wide as possible (i'd rather sacrifice fatness than width) but i don't want ANY rubbing, so can you guys tell me what sizes would be best for my car? also, has anyone here ever taken the resonator off of the exhaust pipe on a malibu? or any similar 3.1? i'm considering it but i don't …
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 10 replies
- 2.6k views
poor little buggers been runnin pretty poor lately... it starts up... but idle is rough, when you floor it it lags considerably and power comes in jolts until it begins to smooth out... any ideas?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
Damn GM and their fit and finish! Anyways, I've been cleaning up my cars this week, and I noticed the wife's Cavalier is growing some rust underneath the doors...(sad, because the car still looks good on the outside) I don't plsn to do a huge repaint or anything, but I do not want the doors to rust further. I was thinking about sanding and putting on some Por, and calling it a day. I was wondering if you guys have any good ideas....
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
I have a 03 z71 and it leaks or burns up coolant. I have searched the entire engine compartment and can not find the leak, the heater core is good, there is no coolant in the oil. I cant find where its all going aany help would be greatly appreciated thanks in advance
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 2 replies
- 2.6k views
Whats up with the nes emission standards for the diesel engines? couple friends noticed that on fuel pumps at stations there are stickers saying that new model year diesel trucks will only be able to use the fuel. any idea?
Last reply by tipsy420, -
problems. 1the fob doesn't always unlock my car first try (this one has had that issue before, replaced battery last month) 2also lost 1 set of keys (fob, ignition, door locks) 3doesn't turn over every time i put the key in and try it. 4, correlation to #3, also resets power to my radio. and runs the radiator fan (briefly) my key is a "chipped" key. questions is i tmost liekly my ignition? (cost of ~$400 for new one) or a controller problem? is there a way to check the "controller"? does the security part of this system shut down all system power other than to the IP when the chip isn't "read" or it's the wrong key? (hence the radio reseting) thanks for t…
Last reply by loki, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 4 followers
- 12 replies
- 2.5k views
I have been using Apple Airport Extreme plus an Express as a wifi extender for years now. The one I have is from 2013. Lately I've been having trouble with it in that even if I have full signal, my speeds are laughably slow. This isn't good for working from home. Unfortunately, Apple stopped making the Airport series after 2016, which is a shame because they really the best routers of their day. The problem that I'm encountering is that most routers have absolutely garbage reviews. Here's what I'm looking for: 1. Wifi6 and Mesh with at least one additional access point - I buy bleeding edge because I want the product to last me many years as my Airp…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 16 replies
- 2.5k views
My sister has a 76 Firebird she would like to fix up, its got a 400ci motor, I think it would be good to set it up with fuel injection, should be more streetable, better fuel economy and the fact its going to be different from what everyone else would go with. Any suggestions as to what vendor to go with? I looked at Holley, I didnt see a kit for a pontiac, would a chevy sb kit work? So much I dont know about this stuff I guess. Thanks
Last reply by balthazar, -
Locally, we have an exhaust shop with a very good rep for workmanship and reasonable prices. They have stainless pipe and a mandrel bender, with a choice of muffler designs. I want to get them to make a dual cat-back system for my truck, but I don't know if I want 3" pipe, or 2 1/2". I have heard that there is such a thing as too little back pressure. Is this something I should be concerned with if I go with 3" pipe? Will 3" pipe have any advantage over 2 1/2? Will the sound be any different with the same mufflers through the bigger pipe? I think I'd like the looks of the 3" pipes doing a side exit behind my wheels. Thanks to anyone who can point me in the right d…
Last reply by ocnblu, -
- 7 replies
- 2.5k views
Well... Any ideas? The car picked up a bad miss in February of this year and I put replacement platinum plugs in. That cured the miss for the most part (it has always had a very slight miss at 14-1500 RPM -- Apparently that is a characteristic of some of the 4.6L cars and something that a lot of people 'live with') Round about May, the ugly miss came back. I added some fuel system cleaner thinking that it couldn't hurt and the miss went away. This weekend, I've been moving so the car has been racking up a lot of interstate miles. Sure enough, today I was getting of the interstate and it's like someone flipped a switch. I added more fuel system cleaner (again; it can't…
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
- 10 replies
- 2.5k views
i noticed alot that if my car is hot and I run in to a store or junkyard for about 30-45 minutes then i get in the car go to start it it will start then kinda misfire and stall it will do this repeatedly untill after you start it you floor it until it revs up then let it back down to idle and it runs fine after that. never does this on cold starts or if it was just running. pretty much all the ignition system was replaced in feburary this year. plugs wire cap rotor coil and ignition module any ideas? 1990 Caprice classic 305 TBI TH-200 trans
Last reply by capriceman, -
- 11 replies
- 2.5k views
After we started up the electra, we found that the brakes are jammed...the "brake release" "pull here" thing is stuck, and the floor breaks are stuck. WHAT CAN I DO?
Last reply by balthazar, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 7 replies
- 2.5k views
So it seems just as I get the Mustang running decent again; no miss and so far neither a wheel nor a caliper has flown off, it's the Cavalier's turn. Today I was 'toolin' down the road and all of the sudden the "No Trac" light comes on and I have a loss of power. I pull off to the side of the road (in the ghetto, no less) and the car dies. First thing I do is lock my new Canon in the trunk and look for a weapon.... Oh wait, I actually did that, but that's the wrong story. First thing I notice is this godawful smell of sulfur. My first thought is a battery issue or a cat converter issue. I get out and check the battery, since it would be a quick fix. It's not hot (I was w…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
-
- 11 replies
- 2.5k views
Mom finally gave up on fixing her Taurus wagon. So I took her car shopping. She looked at a Passat wagon, Vibe, Vue, L200 and a Malibu Maxx. She was planning on a late model used but later decided to spend the extra couple grand and buy new. So her local Chevy dealer found her an 06 Maxx LT with a couple extras, sunroof, side air bags, XM. Very nice little car, I was very impressed with the solid feel of it. So anyway, my reason for posting.... I'm pretty comfortable with GM's 3.1, 3.4 and 3.8 V6's. But I don't know too much about the 3.5. I'm hoping someone can enlighten me on the changes (as compared to the previously mentioned engines). Is this just an up…
Last reply by Mike The Canadian, -
- 21 replies
- 2.5k views
So I'm window shopping for wheels for my car...it's the next item on the list after the engine swap and before I repaint teh car...since that may well be the most expensive part. So for a while now this wheel has been in the running: And I do really like it...until I saw it at this angle: Maybe it's just the lighting but in this photo it looks "flat" and too chunky...I'm gonna try and see if teh dealer has any Avengers with these wheels so I can see them in person. There's a few aftermarket ones I like too... I especially like the 2nd design. It looks silver in one photo but it's actually Hyper Black...which I don't care for. I'm not big on chrome…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
- 6 replies
- 2.5k views
Hello, first time around C&G! I have a question about the Ocatane rating on my 1996 Z28 (roughly 60k miles, and stock). This car is NOT my daily driver, and I only drive it when the weather's good...so roughly 3-4 months out of the whole year. Now the problem. Since I dont drive my Z28 all that much, I figured I would let a family member take it to college for the spring-summer semesters. Well, I got the car back about two-three weeks ago, and really did'nt get the chance to drive it until last Saturday...thats when I noticed the engine was pinging like crazy at idle. My first thought was that stupid b* used Diesel or something, no she used E-85…
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 11 replies
- 2.5k views
Anyone here done it (with the heads on)? I'm having trouble getting either of the two types of spring compressors to get a grip on the springs. Any tips? I'll get some pics up in a few.
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
-
- 15 replies
- 2.5k views
...Tires? Not for me....a neighbor likes the 3 and get one free.... And I really don't know much about them....(none around me) I think he said Futura tires....for his Focus....and he wants my Opinion.......
Last reply by daves87rs, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 4 replies
- 2.5k views
So I just gt off the phone with a guy who's selling a 1992 Saturn SL2 for $750. He tell me it runs and drives fine, but the reverse gear won't work after the car "warms up". What's up with that?
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
-
- 15 replies
- 2.5k views
As you guys know, I'm replacing the rear in the '92 Blazer. The trouble is that it is a G80 locking rear and the debate over synthetic/dino oil and additive/no addititve is all over the place. After reading a zillion different forums, and talking to my friend at the Chevy place, I am no closer to a definitive answer on this. G80 is a build code RPO and seems to mean different things in different years and on different vehicles. So I need a definitive answer on a '97 Tahoe G80 (the donor car my new rear is from). Anyone have a manual for that year?
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
- 1 follower
- 4 replies
- 2.5k views
Does anyone have any experience with this tailpipe expander? Does it work? http://www.autobodytoolmart.com/kd-exhaust-tailpipe-expander-1-716-2-pipe-p-13643.aspx
Last reply by ocnblu, -
- 13 replies
- 2.4k views
Just got a new set of shoes from my 2001 Sunfire. Now whenever I hit the brakes there's a constant whine, louder when speed is under 30kph. Its especially bad when the brakes are cold. Any idea's what it could be?
Last reply by Satty, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 12 replies
- 2.4k views
I've been seeing that some folks have had problems with their 3.6HF engines in the outlook and stuff. Possibly problems with the crank or camshafts. What does anyone know on this?
Last reply by regfootball, -
-
- 1 follower
- 15 replies
- 2.4k views
I have a 99 chevy malibu with 2.4. 78000 miles. When its below 40 degrees its hard to get the car moving. 3000rpm gets me around 2 mph. it runs fine after it has warmed up for 5 min. Above 40 degrees the car runs fine. I hooked up a scan gage to it and could not see a problem. can the spark plugs cause this problem? I never replaced them. thanks
Last reply by loki, -
- 5 replies
- 2.4k views
whats some super cheap mods for this peice of... fine... machinery.
Last reply by quantum110, -
- 10 replies
- 2.4k views
How often all of the bags will blow in a modern car when it is hit and how often just some of them will? Just saw a vehicle that had been hit hard in the side, and only the side impact air bags had blown, not the fronts. Also, what are the laws regarding used airbags? Does anyone know? I know in some states salvage yards are not allowed to sell them. Chris
Last reply by fightingbee, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 2 followers
- 6 replies
- 2.4k views
So, after a few years of postponing it, I'm going to buy a second key fob. The other one got damaged and slowly started giving up the ghost. This is for a 2008 LaCrosse with the base 3800 V6. My current one identifies itself with "Welcome Driver 2" upon inserting the key. The dealerships want anywhere from $40 to $62 to do this task. I will be buying the key fob aftermarket from one of the major auto part stores. Questions: Can I do this myself? How will the key fob "know" to attach itself to my vehicle once I take out of the shipping container and begin programming it? Will it "know" that driver 2 is already programmed and then default to being t…
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 1 follower
- 12 replies
- 2.4k views
Has anyone else noticed the side to side shimmy that all the B-bodys from the 80s clear up through the 90s seem to exibit when going over small bumps at low speed? Years ago I had an '83 Caprice and noticed it. My buddy's 94 Roadsmasher does it too. It seems to be unique to this particular platform.
Last reply by rkmdogs, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 6 followers
- 12 replies
- 2.4k views
I've been dealing with crap fuel economy all summer. I had tested a bunch of theories, including cleaning the throttle body, the MAF sensor, I used fuel injector cleaner, took my custom tune back to stock, checked my air intake, changed my oil, etc. Even thought it was linked to increased ethanol in the gas. It seems kinda dumb in retrospect, but I never checked my A/C because it was functioning perfectly inside the car. Well this past week, temp and humidity dropped to the point that I turned off the A/C and to my surprise, my fuel economy immediately shot up. I actually turned on the instant MPG display and watched the number drop when I clicked the A/C button on an…
Last reply by SuperDuper, -
-
- 3 replies
- 2.4k views
Was wondering if engine misfire/hesitation takes a toll on timing chains? My Regal's 3800 V6 had a flat spot in the low rpms where acceleration after shifting into 4th (approx 47 mph) was accompanied by hesitation and misfiring which cleared itself up above 55 mph. Initially, I thought it was the torque converter, but it was only under acceleration after a low throttle upshift (such as merging or approaching a hill) and not all the time. Had this exact same thing happen about 5 years ago and I changed plug wires which got rid of it. I got new plug wires 2 weeks ago and the problem is gone! This was the car's only driveability quirk. My question: I had this condition…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 15 replies
- 2.4k views
The Roadmaster runs great. Strong, silent and in every way what you would expect of an LT-1 powered Buick with 56,000 miles. However.... It is very hard starting..... I have to crank it much longer than seems normal.. sometimes up to 5 seconds of cranking before she starts to catch. It starts every time... it just takes much longer to do it. It doesn't ping. It doesn't hesitate. It doesn't miss. It pulls really strong. It runs perfectly once it's running.... Today I was at the hardware store and another Roadmaster wagon was parked next to mine..... the Ms. Bluehair behind the wheel turned the key and it fires right up. What can I investigate?
Last reply by DBeaSSt, -
-
- 1 follower
- 10 replies
- 2.3k views
The battery in my first remote died about 2 years ago, so I started using the second one. Now that the second one has died, I went out and bought new Duracell 2-pack of batteries marked DL2032/CR2032. The dead ones were Panasonic CR2032. I've tried both batteries in both remotes, and none of those combinations work. Is there some kind of reprogramming I need to do??
Last reply by RjION, -
- 13 replies
- 2.3k views
if i buy a 350 crate motor with a carb on it could i just put my manifold from my 305 on it and keep fuel injection or would i have to change my whole fuel system?what would i have to do to change my fuel system
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 1 follower
- 10 replies
- 2.3k views
If so, why? It got so heavily embraced in the 80s, and all but the luxury marques seem uber-reluctant to turn back... Does it cost that much less or something? Is it so much less complex?
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 13 replies
- 2.3k views
I have a user who recently had an arm amputated. He is doing ok typing but is struggling with the Ctr-Alt-Del to log in part. He is holding a pen in his mouth to hit the delete key. I've tried macros attached to programable keys on the keyboard and they don't work for that key combination. Any of you other I.T. folk out there know a way around this?
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 6 replies
- 2.3k views
Anyone with experience on this? I've got dried gum stuck to the underside of my rear bumper, and it's already hardened. I don't want to get anything too abrasive, but the usual soaps aren't doing a thing for me. Any thoughts? -RBB
Last reply by Cory Wolfe, -
- 12 replies
- 2.3k views
:( :( :( :( :( Yester day night in the rain i let my car warm up for about 5 minutes got out of the sub and normaly accelerated to 30 mph. Once i reached 30 I backed down a little the car went in to passing gear an it stalled. I quickly pulled in to this school parking lot. O yeah making a turn at 25 with no power steering sucks. Almost hit fence. Then tried to stop with no power brakes, again sucks, almost hit parking blocks. No major lights went on just Bat. Check engine and oil press. They come on when you turn your car on. so i tryed starting no luck. pushed car in N to get rolling start no luck. pushed in to space and walked home. came back 1/2 hour later fired…
Last reply by capriceman, -
- 6 replies
- 2.3k views
My dad has a 2004 Silverado 1500 Z85 with the heavy duty towing package. as such his 1500 has the allison transmission under it (which is totally awesome in my opinion) however, his confidence in his truck has really been shook as of late what with his truck having the steering pin rattle and all. he has replaced that once already and is getting ready to do some engineering work on that so that the grease draining out will no longer be a problem. thats another story. the biggie is that the allison transmission began slipping last week and it has now reached a point friday to where he has parked the truck and is in the process of sending it to the shop to be worked on. Guy…
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
- 6 replies
- 2.3k views
I'm looking to replace the Uniwobbles that came with the G6, although at this point I'm not 100% sure if I'm doing it yet. The main reason for my thought was I almost got into an accident because of the damn tires, skidding towards the opposite lane. Since summer is almost here so I think it shouldn't be too bad for now. Although they also suck in handling. I'm currently considering these: 1. Continental ContiExtremeContact 2. BFGoodrich Traction T/A 3. Toyo Versado LX 5. Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S All of them are V-Rated or H-Rated. I'm leaning towards the Continentals, as I've heard good things about the performance and it's cheaper than the others, but I a…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
Spark Plugs
by Petra- 1 follower
- 9 replies
- 2.3k views
My old Mercury was supposed to have new spark plugs installed at the 180,000 mile point. However, I didn't notice this until recently, so I've already put about 300 more miles on the car. My concern is: How long can I go before the spark plugs will need to be replaced? I'd like to wait until my next oil change @ 291,000-some kilometers (roughly 180,820 miles), because I need my money for other things right now, like paying back my parents for buying the car in the first place. Any advice?
Last reply by Petra, -
- 11 replies
- 2.3k views
So I'm driving home today and There is a light on my dash lit up. I'm Thinking what the hell is that? Looks like a Movie camera? Nah thats not it. What is it? So I get Home and look in the book, it's the service engine soon light. Remembering the loose gas cap thing from Somewhere, I check it. It barely on at all, soo I tighten it down. Restart the Car, the Light is still on. I can Assume it was'nt becuase the gas cap was loose? I did notice a very strong gasoline smell when I Started it this morning. But the light was'nt on during the drive to work. Saturn l200 2.2 liter.
Last reply by SingleStylish, -
- 7 replies
- 2.3k views
We do a lot of HVAC work, resteraunt repair work, and Electrical work for a chain of truck stops. I've noticed a lot of truckers love the Lucas stuff. Lots of them swear by it. Anyone tried it? I'm trying it in the wife's car. Chris
Last reply by 67impss, -
If a engine has E85 capability, what changes are needed to the engine? Is there more hoses, solenoids, condensers, etc to further fill up the engine compartment?
Last reply by scharmer05, -
- 5 replies
- 2.3k views
Does anyone know where one my buy the male GM speaker plugs (the ones on the speaker)? When I install aftermarket speakers, I prefer to wire these onto the new speakers, rather than chop up the door harness and/or make the speaker permanently attached to the door. To the best of my knowledge, GM has used the same plug setup for years, but I am tired of cutting them off blown speakers at the junkyard when I need them.
Last reply by Olds Guy, -
- 1 follower
- 12 replies
- 2.3k views
I am thinking about getting a 2001-2002 Impala LS, preferably with under 80K mi. My only concern is, I have heard conflicting stories of reliability with the transmissions, electrical system, and other mechanical issues. Is an Impala from the early 2000's a safe choice?
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
Speedometer Malfunction
by Guest YellowJacket894- 11 replies
- 2.3k views
Well, what else can I say but our family car is suffering from an ugly little bug. What bug you ask? Well, although I don't have a photo, the speedometer needle in our '04 Imp is resting on the gear selection display, all the way over at the park position. What I'd like to know is simple: is there a way to avoid the dealer? How can this be fixed? If the dealer has to be a part of this, what's the cost? Thanks.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
- 1 follower
- 12 replies
- 2.3k views
You are looking at a two and a half foot wide piece of plastic "chrome" that has been one of the biggest sources of frustration for me in the last five years. The Coles Notes on my tale of woe: The trim applique on the trunk of my 2007 Impala is attached at the factory using six-eight clips into the trunk lid rather than an adhesive glue. As a result the trim is not fastened with equal pressure across the entire part and it vibrates as you drive or when you close the trunk. Unlike the Impala SS models which have painted/clear coated appliques the chrome on the more pedestrian Impala models have a sharp rather than dull lower edge across the bottom which during said v…
Last reply by vonVeezelsnider, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 3 followers
- 9 replies
- 2.3k views
So, recently I have been needing to jump the Toronado if I let it sit more than a few days. Last night, in anticipation of a road trip this morning, I put the battery on the charger for about 4 hours. This morning, it fired right up, no trouble. I head out on my road trip, 250 miles total. I had my headlights on for most of the trip due to rain. During the trip I made at least 3 stops where the engine was shut off. Each time, on restart, she fired up like she just rolled off the line at Linden NJ. I arrived at my destination around 1 pm. At 4:30pm, I run out for a quick errand, no more than 5 miles each way No problems starting at either of my stops. I pull …
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
-
- 15 replies
- 2.2k views
Anyways my "new" 2005 Impala LS has one slight issue with the head unit, at night all the buttons light up and "glow" like they do in my 2001 Impala except these two buttons circled in the buttom right. So I know they are suppose to glow right? Or was the a change in the head unit? (I doubt it but just throwing that out there.) So are there bulbs inside the head unit that can be replaced? Or in order to fix this would I need a new/different head unit? Anyone know or have any idea's? I just would like to know before I take it to the dealer for its first oil change and new mudflaps. If possible and not a ton of money I would like to get this fixed, or get a used head unit o…
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
- 4 replies
- 2.2k views
I first noticed the service engine light came on when I was driving yesterday, and when I accelerated, I heard a loud racket under the hood. The battery gauge on the dash also fluctuated a lot. Upon examination, the bottom of two pulleys on the passenger side was not turning. This pulley is driven by the ungrooved side of the serpentine belt. The pulley itself turned fairly easily by hand when I stopped the engine. The belt is about one year old too. The sound is caused by the belt rubbing hot against the pulley. What is this part that the pulley is turning? Would it require replacing, or is the belt too loose? I have included some pictures of the part in the atta…
Last reply by FAPTurbo, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 9 replies
- 2.2k views
Today, I fixed the a/c in my Intrigue. One of the gears in the passenger-side blend door actuator got a huge crack in it, rendering the whole thing useless. Two trips to AutoZone later (the first time I ordered the part, it didn’t make it onto the delivery truck ) and I’ve got cool air blowing out of the passenger-side vents for the first time in about a year. Today, I also noticed that something else is wrong with the car, and I’m worried that it’s the transmission. Back in July, I went to look at a 2002 Taurus SEL, because my local Chevy-BPG dealer quoted me $1167 to fix the blend door problem (thank God for the internet, I fixed it myself for $140). I was hesitant t…
Last reply by loki, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 13 replies
- 2.2k views
So, it was bound to happen. After 2 and a half trouble free months of cruising, the Achieva hit a snag. Last night, I went to get some food, parked the car, ate. All systems go! Turned her back on, and the volt needle drops down, Charge light stays on: Upon consulting the manual, I get this: The car drove fine, but I noticed it ran quietly. Before this happened, the car would buzz a little at a stoplight. Could it be what the manual says. A drive belt was loose and gave up? Things look okay under the hood, all grounds are grounded. I didn't have time to go to a shop today, but I did take it for a short drive to see if anything changed. Light stays on…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 14 replies
- 2.2k views
Does anyone know if there are any wiring issues on 2005 GTOs? Mine has already had it's second dead battery in 2 years. The first time was with 15,000 miles on the car. I replaced the original battery with a yellow top Optima battery($200) which have been known to last over 10 years, and now 2 years later it is dead again. No electronics were left on, no doors open etc. I just parked at work in the morning, went to leave for lunch, and it just clicks, and the remote unlocking/locking chime is very faint.
Last reply by CaddyXLR-V, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 6 replies
- 2.2k views
There's this annoying and pseudo worrying thing the Regal has been doing lately... I've been noticing a trend where as I'm leaving or coming home and I park next to the thing the trunk is always popped. Of course every time I see this I just open it and close it nice and firm but my brother says that he simply hasn't been using the trunk. Just in case it's simply a hair trigger keyfob I took the batteries out of both of them and sure enough as I'm leaving for class today, there it is nicely ajar again. I also checked that there wasn't some sort of an obstruction in the glove box depressing the button there. Any idea what would be causing this? I'm thinking of discon…
Last reply by vonVeezelsnider, -
-
- 2 replies
- 2.2k views
So, it may sound like something that you'd find at the auto repair place between the muffler bearings and turn signal fluid... but it seems there is some nasty fluid in some rear view mirrors. Apparently, GM auto-dimming mirrors (and some other makes that use the same supplier) have a caustic substance in the mirror... and after a number of years and/or sufficient heat... they can explode or leak. How did I find out? Well, the '99 Grand Prix after spending a lifetime in the northeast, has started to leak once it has been in the hot Cali sun. Just driving along, the car made some pops... and the mirror fogged up and started to leak. After some research, it turns out the…
Last reply by ocnblu, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 11 replies
- 2.2k views
How is it determined how many cubic inches or liters an engine is?
Last reply by Hudson, -
-
- 5 replies
- 2.2k views
Hi All, I have been reading through the forum on several topics,and one that really caught my attention was the tranny issues. My 09 GMC has either a 80 or a 90 trans., I do not have my paperwork with me, and I do not remember. Here are my questions. My tranny has a temp moitor and what shold it run and what is the max temp before issues start? I do not know where the reading is taken from,and I assume that would be important too. It has a factory installed cooler and it is in fromt of the radiator on one side and the engine oil cooler is on the other side, I believe. All that came with the trailering package. 2nd question is this,since the trans. comes with Dextr…
Last reply by MPC, -
- 7 replies
- 2.2k views
What's the purpose of the chin spoiler on the Equinox? Does the Equinox need the spoiler for downforce at high speeds? It can't be an air dam because the grill of the Nox is more than big enough for air to cool the radiator. To me, it looks like it is just a drag on the air as it flows around the spoiler. This can be said for a lot of vehicles on the road. So, apparently there is a reason for it, but what?
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
- 9 replies
- 2.2k views
*Sigh* Stupid remote is dead. It looks like the fob has a crack on the inside. And I'm not paying 70 bucks for a new one. Where could I get a cheap one? Ebay, maybe? I miss opening it from far away....
Last reply by daves87rs, -
- 14 replies
- 2.2k views
So today I decided to finally swap and rewire stereos in the Prizm. The Pioneer unit in there actually has good sound adjustments but has a $h!ty, almost unreadable display and it's a cassette player. The Sony XPLOD is a cd player that can read CD/RWs too as well as having an AUX jack. With help from my friend we got it wired up..although I'm disappointed with sound quality...the bass is almost nonexistent. if I ever buy an aftermarket stereo I'll go for Pioneer. But that's not what this thread is about. While I had the hood up to disconnect the battery, my friend noticed that the exhaust manifold had a crack in it. Oh goodie. Apparently this is a commo…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 10 replies
- 2.1k views
Since we have a basic hand tool thread going why not a power tool thread? What's in your arsenal? What do you want add to it? For drills, I actually have three. My very first power drill is a Black & Decker CDC1800. It's been a great drill but the NiCd batteries no longer hold a charge and it just doesn't fulfill my needs anymore. (3/8 chuck, 650rpm). Last year I purchased a Skil 2364-02 720 rpm compact drill/driver. This has been a great little tool, having 2-speeds (which the B&D lacks) makes stripped screws a far less frequent occurrence. A few months ago I was given a Makita 6227D, however it too had a dead NiCd battery. These are nice drills so I ordered a…
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
-
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 2 replies
- 2.1k views
I just did some major brake work on my '86 Pontiac Parisienne -- new calipers, new stainless steel lines, new flex hoses, new proportioning valve and new wheel cylinders. The problem is that I can't get the brakes to bleed properly. I am not getting significant amounts of air out of any of the bleeder valves at the wheels anymore (I got lots of air at first as expected, then clear fluid), but when the car is running, the pedal is mushy and the BRAKE light flickers. The booster motor cycles at every brake apply, when it is supposed to cycle every 3-5 applies. These are the electrically boosted brakes with the big booster motor that sits below the master cylider --…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
-
- 3 replies
- 2.1k views
Every time an automaker makes an economy car, they always give it short, fat tires; giving it a look that was pulled off much better by the BMW Isetta. Yet every time a you look at a car that's built for a mileage competition, you see tall, skinny tires. Given the lower rolling resistance, higher final gearing and better traction of tall and skinny tires, why don't more manufacturers use them?
Last reply by balthazar, -
-
- Editor-in-Chief
- 1 follower
- 15 replies
- 2.1k views
Hi All, I'm posting this on behalf of my friend who owns a Naturally Aspirated 3800 Series II 1996 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight LS with about 175K Kms (108K Miles) and he says that when he comes to a complete stop at a stoplight and sits there in gear, the engine starts shaking real violently and the check engine light comes on. I haven't had the opportunity to witness the problem first hand but he's described it in this way... He's taking the car into an indie mechanic but I know that alot of you guys have 3800 H-Bodies and I was wondering if you can give any insight. He says he's gonna turf the car in favour of a LeSabre or Park Avenue if the cost of the repairs are an…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
-
- 1 reply
- 2.1k views
I have a 2002 GMC Envoy and it looses power randomly between 1/2 and 1/4 tank full. Can only maintain 25 MPH. If you push on the gas pedal it has no power and will slow down more. If you fill it up with gas it runs fine. Mostly have problems on the highway at constant speed but is not repeatable and does not happen on every tank full. Dealer replaced the O2 sensor but still having the same problem. They can't figure it out. Anyone have this same problem? Thanks!
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker,
