1997 Pontiac Bonneville Stalling

Tiny
ROBINELLEN
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 197,000 MILES
Car generally runs great, but will occasionally stall while idling (whether it be at a full stop or even traveling down the freeway with my foot off the gas), or try to stall while accellerating (engine will shut down for a second then kick back on again if my foot remains on the pedal). Usually starts back up right away, but sometimes requires a couple mintue's rest before starting. Been going on for months now, no codes, getting progressively worse (3-10 times a week). Have replaced IAC, TPS, checked all vaccum hoses, and have cleaned the throttle body. Any ideas on what else could be causing this?
Monday, April 21st, 2008 AT 4:22 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
There are some simple tests that can be done to help cause a problem symptom. It is a short cut that get get to the point sometimes. On this particular one I would try a tap test. Try a few light taps with a screwdriver handle on the crankshaft position sensor bracket


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_crank_1.jpg

and see if it acts up.
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Monday, April 21st, 2008 AT 8:00 PM
Tiny
ROBINELLEN
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  • 2 POSTS
Thanks for your speedy reply! Tried the tap test, but it didn't act up. Also checked the connectors there.. What are the chances that the problem is related to the car's Power Control Module (computer)?
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Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008 AT 11:12 AM
Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
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I hate to jumnp to the PCM. At this point I might try a tap test on it, but I wouldn't jump into that focus yet. It is always possible, but if you replaced a few that didn't need it, you get more thorough before putting one in.

It could be a software issue that the pcm needs an upgrade.

IF you can get an auxialliary fuel gauge and tape it to the window and see if the pressure falls out of spec. This may be a fuel pump on it's way out.

We need to find out what is being lost. Fuel. Spark?

I would keep a spark tester and a fuel gauge with me. When it doesn't restart, that is the time to test.
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Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008 AT 6:33 PM

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