98 Cavalier 2.4l dies after warming up

DYUNYSUS

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Ok, here is the deal got a 98 cavalier super cheap.
automatic transmission (rebuilt by shop)
car has 180,000 miles on it. The previous owner sold it to me because it kept shutting off about 10 minutes after it started.

Ran DTC codes it came back as a catalyst system problem
checked catalytic converter and it was completely destroyed. Replaced it and car started right up.

however it still keeps shutting itself off!
it does not sputter or idle rough, but the cpu is showing no new codes. The anti-theft system light is not on either when it shuts off.

i have replaced the plugs and wires, fuel & air filters
i even went as crazy to change the timing chain and sprockets because they had never been done before.

still shuts off after ten minutes, basically as soon as the car heats up.

PLEASE HELP ME! :(

2 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

When it dies out after warming up immediately check for spark and fuel-Do you have it?

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Thursday, October 11th, 2007 AT 6:21 PM

DYUNYSUS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Have fixed the shutting off problem. It was the crankshaft position sensor had a crack in it.

Howerver since I have changed the timing chain and sprockets, tensioner and guides
i have a loud rattling coming from that area.

When I installed the new tensioner there were no instructions in the kit. I have been reading on the web that new tensioners are in a locked position and must be released, is that true? And if so how do I do that since the kit nor the haynes manual made any reference to releasing the tensioner from locked position.?

UPDATE:

FOUND IT! Yes I did have to depress the tensioner beyond the inner piston till it clicked and then it is released and takes up the slack in the chain.

Whooo hoooo! :O