1997 Chevy Cavalier 3 things

Tiny
JOSLYNHIGHLANDER
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • MANUAL
  • 120,000 MILES
Having trouble starting. New starter 3 years ago. Battery is good. Have to hit the ignitions sometimes 5-6 times before it will start. Couple times did not start at all. Can roll it, and sometimes will start.

2nd:Drivers side rear turn signal. Something going on there, works when I put a new bulb in for a little while, then stops. Notice a sort of "burn" or "melted" look to the bulbs when I change the bulb. Have cleaned out the socket several times with emery board, sometimes works, sometimes doesnt. Do I need a new socket? And can I use a universal one found in auto parts stores?
3Rd: AC stopped blowing cold air. Blows, but no cold air. Could you help me please?
Thanks you
~Joslyn
Sunday, July 19th, 2009 AT 2:35 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JDL
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,098 POSTS
Hello, as far as the starting, are you saying it cranks good but won't start? If so, use a gage and check fuel pressure. How long since a tune-up? Can you check for spark at the plugs, when it refuses to start?

With the turn signal, have you tried a blob of grease on the bottom of the bulb, sometimes the grease will help it make electrical contact. When you try to run the ac, is the compressor clutch engaged?
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Sunday, July 19th, 2009 AT 3:19 PM
Tiny
JOSLYNHIGHLANDER
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Well, yes it cranks good. But sometimes in order to get it to fire, I have to hit the ignition sometimes 5 or 6 times, then it cranks.

I've tried the blob of grease in the socket. This is second time I've had this problem. First time, replaced the flasher under the dash, everything worked well for since Last October, then, one morning, blinker started acting up. Replaced the bulb, worked fine for a day. Replaced the bulb again, worked ok on and off.?
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Sunday, July 19th, 2009 AT 5:18 PM
Tiny
JDL
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,098 POSTS
When the turn signal problem occurs, have you tried using a testlite on the bulb socket or wiring, to see if there is voltage. If no voltage, I'd suspect the turn switch or wiring circuit. You could also check ground.
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Monday, July 20th, 2009 AT 8:33 AM
Tiny
JOSLYNHIGHLANDER
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you jdl.I will have to take it in. I have no equipment to test it. I appreciate your replies very much.

I was hoping for a little more information to be prepared when taking it in to mechanic, or possibly trying the work myself, but, I must rely on wherever I take it.
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Monday, July 20th, 2009 AT 8:37 AM

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