AboutRoland Finston Expertise I take questions about domestic Chrysler-product front wheel drive cars and minivans for the years 1982-2000 based upon my experience and shop manuals. I don't have detailed information (e.g. manuals) nor expertise for Jeeps, trucks, SUV's, import vehicles, or for years more recent than 2000 (except Sebring/Stratus I have '03).
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Experience I have been a do-it-yourself auto hobbyist for 5 decades, and most recently have been concentrating on the various Chrysler Corporation domestic front wheel drive cars and vans. I have shop manuals and wiring diagrams for many models for the years '83-'00, as well as rear wheel drive cars for the early 80's. I enjoy analyzing problems that other Chrysler enthusiasts are having and sharing my information.
Organizations belong to Group co-moderator of the Yahoo autos group The Chrysler LeBaron Club
Question QUESTION: On 3 occasions during the last 3 weeks my T&C stalled while underway. In each case the stall was preceded by minor sputtering and engine rpms did not increase when the accelerator was depressed. I could not restart the van immediately following the stall, but in each case the van could be re-started without any issues after about 15-30 minutes. I have the following diagnostic trouble codes: 12, 15, 21, 51, 21, and 55. I suspect a failing fuel pump. Is there as easy way to confirm my suspicion?"
ANSWER: Hi George,
There is a test port on the fuel rail where you can attach a pressure gauge to see if it reads 48 pounds of pressure or not.
The codes 51 and 21 are suggesting however that the oxygen sensor is either not working or showing a too lean reading (21 and 51, respectively). I would not focus on the fuel pump ahead of replacing the oxygen sensor or at least verifying its wires are patent. It's failure might well cause a stall. It is located on the exhaust manifold on the rear side of the engine.
The 15 code says that the distance sensor from the transmission was not being received. If this were true, your speedometer would not be working. The 12 code is routine, resulting from the disconnection of the battery, and the 55 means "end of code readout".
Roland
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QUESTION: I will replace the oxygen sensor and test fuel pressure when the van is running properly, and hopefully during the time I cannot start the vehicle following a stall. My speedometer is and has been working properly, so I do not understand the occurence of code 15.
Where can I get a fuel pressure gauge and how do I clear the existing diagnostic codes? Thanks for your rapid and clearly-stated response.
Answer Hi George,
On the gauge, I would call around to auto parts stores to see who has the best deal or perhaps see if you can borrow one. It is not something you will need very often.
The code 15 may have been a false recording, or possibly a miscount. So before erasing the codes, give it another readout. To erase the codes, just disconnect the battery for about a minute. All but the 12 and 55 codes will then be gone.
Thanks for the kind rating.
Roland
