It just shut off

Tiny
WILLINGTOLEARN
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 BUICK CENTURY
  • 3.1L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 165,000 MILES
Car had just cut off twice, but would start back up. The last time that it cut off it wouldn't start. Kept trying and when it did it ran like it jumped timing. So I've changed both crank sensors, cam position senor, coils, the sensor under the coils, and I checked the timing chain. I replaced the timing chain and sprockets so I know that it is in time. When I do get it to run it won't rev up and still sounds like it's out of time. Do you think it could be the camshaft or the rocker arms? Maybe a broken push rod. I haven't taken the valve covers off yet. Wanting to get some advice before I get anymore upset and junk it, still a pretty nice car. Like I say it was running fine then just cut off. Thanks for any help or suggestion.
Saturday, November 16th, 2019 AT 6:31 AM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi:
It sounds like you have done a lot already. Have you checked fuel pump pressure? Also, you may want to remove the valve covers to see if something has happened there as well. Even a compression test will tell us if there are issues.

As far as a lifter or push rod, I would think you would hear a ticking or knocking, but anything is possible.

If it is possible, record and upload the engine when it's cranking so I can hear it. Not always, but often times I can identify specific issues.

Also, check for major engine vacuum leaks. These engines are known for intake leaks.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, November 16th, 2019 AT 6:35 PM
Tiny
WILLINGTOLEARN
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Okay, I will check it this weekend. I drive a truck and won't get a chance to check it until then. I'll let you know what the reading is then on the fuel pressure.
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Monday, November 18th, 2019 AT 5:19 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Let me know what you find. Also, reconfirm that the spark plug wires are in correct order and none of them shorted.

I will watch for your reply. Also, if you can upload an audio of it cranking and running it may help me.

Joe
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Monday, November 18th, 2019 AT 5:34 PM
Tiny
WILLINGTOLEARN
  • MEMBER
  • 24 POSTS
Sorry it took me so long to reply, working more with the Holidays here. I did the pressure test yesterday and the reading was 20 key on 19 cranking. I think that's why it's backfiring when trying to start from spitting fuel without enough pressure. Ordering a new fuel pump from RockAuto and will let you know how it turns out from there. I didn't upload audio because I don't know how. (Not to good with computers sorry ole school ) Going to change inline fuel filter too when I change the pump assembly. You guys have been a big help Thanks.
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Sunday, December 22nd, 2019 AT 5:35 AM
Tiny
WILLINGTOLEARN
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  • 24 POSTS
I forgot to mention that I did check the plug wires and all the hoses they both were looking good. Everything was connected and the hoses were still soft and not dried out. Spark plug wires were still soft like new (had changed them about a year earlier) and still in the holders not rubbing anything. I like to put things back just as I find them.
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Sunday, December 22nd, 2019 AT 5:51 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

First, you are very welcome.

The pressure is surely low. Here are the manufacture's specs. You have slightly under half of what is indicated.

1996 Buick Century Sedan V6-3100 3.1L VIN M SFI
Fuel System Pressure Specifications
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Specifications Pressure, Vacuum and Temperature Fuel System Pressure Specifications
FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
** Fuel Pressure Spec. Has been corrected per TSB #61-63-10 **

When the ignition switch is ON (Engine off) and the fuel pump is running, the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel pressure gage should be 284-325 kPa (41-47 psi).

_____________________________________

When you get the parts, let me know if you need help with anything.

Take care,
Joe
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Sunday, December 22nd, 2019 AT 7:28 PM
Tiny
WILLINGTOLEARN
  • MEMBER
  • 24 POSTS
Joe, it has been awhile but I had that car towed to a shop to get the fuel pump put in. He called me about two weeks ago and said that he had pressure now but he didn't say anything else. I'm going by there to see what is going on whenever I call he is out. I'll let you know something when I know something. It was too cold on the ground to drop that tank.
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Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 6:50 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

I totally understand. I hate working like that as well, especially if it is cold. Let me know what is found or if you need anything.

Take care,
Joe
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Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 12:14 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi:
I totally understand. I hate working like that as well, especially if it is cold. Let me know what is found or if you need anything.

Take care,
Joe
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Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 12:14 PM

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