1996 Oldsmobile Achieva no start

1996 OLDSMOBILE ACHIEVA
147,236 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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BIGDADDIE47
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similar to a question listed. turn key on no display for instruments no test nothing also headlights don't come on. will start and run for 2 sec then dies. replaced key switch, worked for about six tries -let run for a while, shut off, nothing worked the next day. tried disconnecting battery for 5min and reconnected-nothing. checked rest of electrical--fuel pump--heater fan, turnsignals, door chime, interior lights, power windows, radio, wipers..all work. headlights were changed so they don't shut off with the switch (no day running light sensor seen)- used car- came that way. if it does turn on right i hear two relay clicks, none if it doesn't work. problem has been for last 2 years(wait for lights to come on) then now totally quit I AM BUFFALOED and frustrated. thanks
Jun 11, 2010 at 9:22 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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This is a tough one. It almost sounds like the switch itself is bad or out of adjustment. Have you checked that?
Jun 18, 2010 at 1:28 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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new switch went in only one way-everything that works off the key switch works -starter will run, motor runs 3 seconds then shuts off. when it works normally I hear 2 relay clicks when idiot lights come on. could there be a problem with the relays and where are they
Jun 18, 2010 at 4:34 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Does the vehicle have a factory alarm? Is the security light staying on?

As far as the relays, there is a relay block under the hood.
Jun 18, 2010 at 9:29 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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no alarm system, light? dash idiot lights don't light where might the relay be as the "car "was built around the motor ( a pox on engineers)
Jun 18, 2010 at 11:09 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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It isn't easy to work on them. No room! As far as the relays, there is a relay block under the hood and I believe there are relays behind the glove box. Which specific relay are you looking for?
Jun 18, 2010 at 11:14 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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sorry about the delay didn't get an alert. I don't know which relays just know I hear 2 clicks when dash lights came on. I presume it would be ones that feed the computer/power train module as things run by this are the ones not working. didn't know where to look for the module
Jun 21, 2010 at 1:28 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Check under the hood for a power distribution box. It should list (the lid) what each relay is for. Also, see if you can tell which is clicking. Also, make sure the wiring harness to the PCM is tight and not corroded.
Jun 21, 2010 at 11:23 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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will do. the problem is it only clicks when it works. where is the pcm located in this 'wonderful' machine?
Jun 22, 2010 at 9:41 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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It's behind the dash on the passanger side.
Jun 22, 2010 at 6:39 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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will try this hope it works thank you
Jun 22, 2010 at 10:08 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I do too. Let me know the outcome. Infact, when you remove the old PCM, check in the area if there is anyone who can check it for you.
Jun 22, 2010 at 11:14 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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Sorry about the delay-(shade tree mech-no tree) checked the pcm. only have general wiring diagram- haynes. wiring shows 2 power colors- followed them on the connector block have 3 pink wires power on all- 2 orange wires have power on connector #20 and no power on #56. checked all fuses labeled pcm- 2 fusible links found none colored to pcm only fan relay and heat blower. didn't see any relays behind glove box. local dealer charges $$$$ to check pcm can't afford, guess will have to junk it.
Thanks for the advice and help
Aug 1, 2010 at 10:55 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Don't junk it yet. Have you called any of the local nationally recognized parts stores to see if they can check it. Many provide services like this for free.
Aug 1, 2010 at 10:27 PM
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BIGDADDIE47
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Had not thought of that, will try. wish this heat would ease off 100 in the shade porch
Aug 2, 2010 at 1:52 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Let me know what you find.
Aug 3, 2010 at 12:57 AM
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MLCOMPOUND
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Was there ever a solution to this problem? I am experiencing the exact same symptoms and need some help. Thanks.
Feb 13, 2011 at 11:04 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I haven't heard from the customer. He should receive our conversation via his email and hopefully reply.
Feb 14, 2011 at 12:15 AM
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BIGDADDIE47
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Sorry I didn't post. No one around here does anything with computers except read codes and clear codes. Chevy dealer could run diagnostics for $$$$ but it had to be in the car and the motor had to be running. Guess he had peanutbutter in his ears. Sold car to someone who needed a motor(put computer back).Damnedest thing happened when he picked up car I hooked up a battery to release the shift to neutral and the dash lights came on!!!!! turned key-- it started!!! so drove it on the ramp. Guy did realize I was SURPRISED. Sorry It wasn't solved. Did appreciate tips to aim my brain. LIVE WELL Joe
Feb 22, 2011 at 4:41 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Honestly! It sounds like you have the same luck as I do. If it was mine, the guy would most likely drive it another 100K before having any other trouble.

Feb 22, 2011 at 5:01 AM
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