Expert: Rob Painter - 6/8/2009

Question
Hey, I was told to ask you in specific on this matter as your reputation is very good on these issues. My 91 caddy eldorado 4.5 v8, limited edition is having some weird starting issues. The issue is that sometimes it simply wont start after driving for a bit. The key turns, all lights comes on like normal on dash, I see the message Good Morning on the control panel, but no firing at all. Actually turning the key to starting position immedietly shuts everything off. I turn the key off again, then turn it back on, see the message Good Morning again, turn the key to try to start and immediate shut off. The only thing that will work is to undo the battery cables and let it set for about 30 minutes. Then it starts. It also never fails to start from my driveway, its only after driving for a bit. You can hear the fuel pump working, and like I said it always starts eventually, just frustrating to have this problem. Sometimes Im stuck somewhere for an hour waiting on the dang thing to start.

Answer
Hello,

Thank you for your nice comments. I don't think I can help you though. Intermitent problems can be very challenging.
The VATS anti-theft system does not cause the engine to shut down and as you state the fuel pump is running.
Unless the problem becomes more pronounced where you can diagnose it, you will not be able to fix it.

As I said, I appreciate the compliments, but there are some things I just don't know the answer to and this is one of those things.

Rob

Hello,

I don't appreciate your rating especially with your follow up "it's the starter." You indicated the engine would start and then shut off. Hey, you stated the engine would not fire but you could hear the fuel pump running. When someone says the engine is not firing, that indicates that the engine is cranking but no spark.

Your description does not give any indication of a starter because you said the engine quits and does not fire. My answer is only as good as your description of the symptom. Next time don't make a comment that seems to be a compliment and then rate me with no knowledge.



Now if you would have said cold the engine cranks good and when warm either the starter turns slow or engine does not crank warm, I would have told you to get some type of extension and hit the starter housing with a hammer and chances are the engine would crank. At this point the problem is diagnosed correctly and you needed toi change the starter.

The next time you try being technical in your description, use terms that are known in the trade and maybe you will get the answer you need.

This forum is all volunteer on my part. I do not get compensated. In most cases I enjoy assisting people with my knowledge. I do not appreciate someone that has no clue as to describe his problem and then rate me at 1 for knowledge!!

Rob