Engine - Multiple Driveability Conditions/MIL ON
File In Section: 6E - Engine Fuel & EmissionBulletin No.: 87-63-06
Date: June, 1998
Subject:
No Start, Engine Miss, Rough Idle, MIL May Illuminate (Diagnose, Repair Procedure)
Models:
1998 Chevrolet Venture
1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette
1998 Pontiac Trans Sport with 3400 V6 Engine (VIN E - RPO LA1)
with the Following VIN Breakpoints:
Model VIN Breakpoints
Chevrolet SOP - WD212373
Oldsmobile SOP - WD21113O
Pontiac SOP - WD212374
Condition
Some owners may comment on various driveability conditions such as a no start, engine miss or rough idle. A Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may also illuminate. These conditions are most likely to occur after the vehicle has been driven in wet slushy snow.
Cause
It has been determined that wet snowy slush may be accumulating around the evaporative vent valve located under the vehicle. The vent valve draws the water from the wet snow slush during its normal venting operation. The drawn water is then transferred into the evaporative charcoal canister and into the fuel tank. Additionally, this wet snow slush could be contaminated with road salts.
Correction
If a vehicle has been driven in wet slushy snow and afterwards the vehicle experiences a driveability condition described, the following steps need to be performed:
1. Verify if Product Campaign 98008-A has been performed on the vehicle. Perform the Campaign if not completed.
2. Verify if any Diagnostic Trouble Codes are present using a Tech 2 scantool. If a DTC P0300 is stored and/or the owner has had a driveability concern of a no start or rough/idle misfire, obtain a fuel sample from the vehicle at the fuel filter inlet located under the vehicle. Be sure to follow all safety procedures as outlined in the Service Manual.
3. The fuel sample should be bright and clear. Place the sample in a glass container and allow it to sit for a minimum of 5 minutes. This will allow for adequate liquid separation. If water is present in the fuel sample, it would appear as a separation at the bottom of the container. If water is present in the fuel sample, follow Step 4. If no water is present in the fuel sample, follow normal strategy based diagnostic procedures for the above conditions as outlined in the vehicle's Service Manual. If the P0300 DTC repair requires replacement of the fuel injector, visually inspect the injector spray nozzle or tip. If there is a crystalline deposit, follow Step 4.
4. Remove the evaporative charcoal canister lines and check for the presence of water. If possible, remove the canister from the bracket and weigh on a scale. Be sure the scale has recently been calibrated. If the canister weight exceeds 3.5 lb./1.6kg or has water in the lines, replace the canister and the evaporative vent solenoid also located in the bracket.
5. Perform a cylinder leakdown test using Kent-Moore J 35667-A on cylinders 2, 4 and 6 (front 3 cylinders) as per the vehicle's Service Manual. If the leak rate exceeds 30%, remove and replace the engine. Follow the vehicle's Service Manual for removal and replacement of the engine assembly. After the engine has been replaced or if the leakdown rate is less than 30 percent, proceed to Step 6.
6. Drain and remove the fuel tank. The fuel removed will not be reused. Follow proper fuel disposal methods for your area.
7. Remove and replace the fuel pump assembly.
8. Remove and replace the rear fuel lines, fuel filter, intermediate fuel and evaporative lines, front fuel and evaporative lines, fuel feed and return pipes.
9. Remove and replace the fuel rail, all six (6) fuel injectors and the fuel pressure regulator.
10. Remove and replace the evaporative purge solenoid.
11. Change engine oil and filter, add 4.5 qts (4.3L) of SAE 5W-30 oil if the engine was not replaced in Step 5.
12. Fill the fuel tank with new fuel (NOT THE SAME FUEL REMOVED FROM THE VEHICLE) and add 1 can of dry gas (isopropyl alcohol).
13. Check the evaporative system for leaks by performing the service bay test for the evaporative system.
14. Check the engine and fuel system for leaks.
Parts Information
Parts are curently available from GMSPO.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor Operation Labor Time
L3500 7.4 hrs
Add 1.3 hrs (For Engine
Replacement)