Tech Section
574 topics in this forum
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I have to move the '69 Firebird. It has a fairly worn Chevy 350. About six years ago I last attempted to start it and was unsuccessful. At that time it had sat for about 2 years. Now it hasn't been attempted to start in about 6 years. I checked my fluids, poured some gas in the carb and put a battery on it, and even with a good battery, I'm getting nowhere. The engine does turn over... slowly... but it sounds nasty... a deep, dry, grinding. Normally, I would panic, but I recall a different, worn, engine which sounded similar (father's worn 350 Chevy Cubevan) until I got enough juice into the starter... at which point it fired up and ran. Is this grinding the be…
Last reply by longtooth, -
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Hi All, I was wondering what you guys think about the 6.2 gasoline running a true Dual exhaust. It appears to me that on first glance my 6.2 already has dual catylitic converters and I would like to help it breath better by changing the single exhaust to a true dual. Sound and HP are not my number one goal. I will get that if it breaths better. I am installing a Volant air induction with the new Donaldson Power Core filter that uses the newer Nano-filter technology and is said(by Donaldson) to be 99.8 efficent. Cleaner in hopefully less wear. I have already started the transition to synthetic oil and will run a bypass system soon too, with oil analysis included for oil fi…
Last reply by Nick, -
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^^^ She is not running cold any more. The AC seems hotter than hot FL weather. As far as the documentations show, the AC system is a closed one and before adding freon one has to make sure that there are no apparent leaks. Any quick way to fix the AC hotness without breaking the bank?
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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Hi All, I have been reading through the forum on several topics,and one that really caught my attention was the tranny issues. My 09 GMC has either a 80 or a 90 trans., I do not have my paperwork with me, and I do not remember. Here are my questions. My tranny has a temp moitor and what shold it run and what is the max temp before issues start? I do not know where the reading is taken from,and I assume that would be important too. It has a factory installed cooler and it is in fromt of the radiator on one side and the engine oil cooler is on the other side, I believe. All that came with the trailering package. 2nd question is this,since the trans. comes with Dextr…
Last reply by MPC, -
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Anyways my "new" 2005 Impala LS has one slight issue with the head unit, at night all the buttons light up and "glow" like they do in my 2001 Impala except these two buttons circled in the buttom right. So I know they are suppose to glow right? Or was the a change in the head unit? (I doubt it but just throwing that out there.) So are there bulbs inside the head unit that can be replaced? Or in order to fix this would I need a new/different head unit? Anyone know or have any idea's? I just would like to know before I take it to the dealer for its first oil change and new mudflaps. If possible and not a ton of money I would like to get this fixed, or get a used head unit o…
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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A friend of mine recently got back from college out of town and left his car here... now he's here to stay and wants to run it again. It's a 1996 Oldsmobile 88 3.8L Series II (Naturally Aspirated) with the 4T60E Transmission with 180K. It's been parked on a quiet street but has been exposed to the fury of -50 degree weather. There were no mechanical problems or otherwise when he parked it in August. I've been making a laundry list of stuff that needs to be done to run it after a cold Canadian winter outside. I think he should just get a new car considering how much a lot of this is going to cost in my head, but he's adamant about driving the car. So far I've come u…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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I ask because I WANT these but the owner doesn't remember what kind they were (they came with the car, he sold them sooner after and regrets it).
Last reply by gm4life, -
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99 monte carlo, the switch is good, it gets power, but the motor won't budge. looking for info on how to tackle it.... things to check, maybe a how to best take it apart if need be. thanks, could it move "past it limits"? how would i check that, or how could i bring it back inside it's limits?
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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I've been eying getting the Integrity OEM tires off the Impala in the future and I've been tire shopping. I've decided I want to have a quiet nice riding tire, and I'm willing to pay a premium. at the end of the day I'm choosing between the Goodyear Comfortred and the Michelin MXV4 Primacy which is a relatively new tire. I need something that is decent in the snow and wet as it does have to do all season duty. I know that the Michelin has a slightly shorter treadlife but probably rides better etc... My concern is would it be that much better and would it be better in the winter? I'm sure some of the tire guys here could help me make a decision. Goodyear Comfortred …
Last reply by Z-06, -
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Hi All, I have a 2001 Saab 9-5 with which I change rims in the winter and summer. I've been noticing a more and more intrusive vibration coming from the front wheels, I believe the left one. It makes a noise when going above a certain speed, and on certain road surfaces I can feel a wobble in the steering wheel. Also, the car wants to pull slightly to the left on the highway, and when I go around a left hand turn on the highway both the noise and the steering wheel vibration go away. It's not a problem with the rim or the tire as I have changed these. What could be causing this?
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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Damn GM and their fit and finish! Anyways, I've been cleaning up my cars this week, and I noticed the wife's Cavalier is growing some rust underneath the doors...(sad, because the car still looks good on the outside) I don't plsn to do a huge repaint or anything, but I do not want the doors to rust further. I was thinking about sanding and putting on some Por, and calling it a day. I was wondering if you guys have any good ideas....
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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Just got a new set of shoes from my 2001 Sunfire. Now whenever I hit the brakes there's a constant whine, louder when speed is under 30kph. Its especially bad when the brakes are cold. Any idea's what it could be?
Last reply by Satty, -
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So I'm having some issues with the steering. When I brake from from highway speed, steering starts from around 100km/h, slight vibration, then larger vibration at around 60-50km/h, then vibration damps out. Slight pulsation of the brake pedal at around the same speeds, same intensity variation as well, but very slight. It doesn't seem to happen if I'm braking at low speeds, only highway. I did some basic diagnostics, rotated the tires and checked the tire pressure, doesn't seem to cut it. My rotors and brake pads are pretty new as well, got a new set on all 4 wheels last Summer. Any ideas what might be wrong? Thanks.
Last reply by pow, -
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Since Ocn is in the biz I figured he would know, but anyone with info please share. So I'm looking at photos of my car and I have to say...they depress the hell out of me. The driver's side looks terrible. There's the scrapes in fender and front door from when it was hit by a POS Protege, there's the scrapes left by that Integra that hit it, and over the winter someone scraped it further with the snow blower. The replacement door is an improvement over the huge dent the original had, but it got scraped from the snow blower too. As well, I'm not sure if the door or the rub strip or both are misaligned...but I hate it so much. Also the paint shades are different. The r…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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Anyone have experience with this stuff? In order to get the color scheme I want for my interior I either have to live with black/gray but have to hunt down the rare black/gray leather door panels, or paint the upper door panels (vinyl arm rest and upper door panel) black.
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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I have a 2007 Silverado Classic 4.8L V8. While going to the local Chevy dealer for maintenance they are recommending a transmission fluid change at around 30,000 miles. I am currently at 36,000 so I was going to have them change the transmission fluid. When I called to schedule I expected to use the GM Goodwrench coupon that came in the mail. It was for $129.95. However when I called to schedule they said the coupon didn't apply since I have the Dexron-VI and it is really expensive so they said it would cost $220. This got me curious so I checked the manual and it recommends 100,000 normal and 50,000 severe driving/towing. I drive mostly highway miles and don't tow.…
Last reply by redtruck, -
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Okay, 1994 Century. The cupholder in the armrest is broken. I threw it out a while back. Since I've become an avid tea drinker in the morning and putting it in a travel mug, I'm tired of holding beverages while I drive anywhere. I found this, a cupholder to replace the one in the armrest. The guy advertises it for a Buick LeSabre/Park Ave, some Caddy and Olds too, but said it may work in other models. How can I find out if this will work in mine? Was it a standard cupholder mechanism used in GM armrests? eBay Cupholder Link Thingy Anyone know?
Last reply by Paolino, -
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Okay all of you mechanically-inclined and talented posters, I've got a question for you. My wife's car is around 13k and we're approaching 11 months of ownership. I've been reading here and there articles or statements saying that GM's Dexcool Coolant is known to cause problems for radiators and engine parts (plastics, I think). Some sources have suggested removing the orange Dexcool coolant and replacing it with the traditional green coolant. If today's (or should I say 2008's) Dexcool coolant is not good for longevity, and since we plan on owning this car for quite some time (7 years maybe?), I was wondering if I should go ahead and get this done now. If so, what i…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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For some reason, the truck is losing coolant and yet the engine doesn't overheat. I haven't driven it more than 25 miles one way. What could the problem be? It does release water out the exhaust at times. I hear a squealing sound when it first starts up. Temp gage never goes above 1/4. When it is low on coolant it tends to make a trashing sound?? And you can hear a gurgling sound when you start it up. I know it could be several things" head gasket intake gasket freeze plug thermostat seals I can't see any visible leaks however.
Last reply by z28luvr01, -
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So I'm window shopping for wheels for my car...it's the next item on the list after the engine swap and before I repaint teh car...since that may well be the most expensive part. So for a while now this wheel has been in the running: And I do really like it...until I saw it at this angle: Maybe it's just the lighting but in this photo it looks "flat" and too chunky...I'm gonna try and see if teh dealer has any Avengers with these wheels so I can see them in person. There's a few aftermarket ones I like too... I especially like the 2nd design. It looks silver in one photo but it's actually Hyper Black...which I don't care for. I'm not big on chrome…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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So I've overhauling a bunch of stuff on my '89 GMC G3500 Vandura. It started out as a quick quest to fix the brakes from pulling to the left, and to get it through NJ inspection, but after shaking things around, its turned into a mountain of replacement parts... new ball joints, tie rods, rotors, calipers, pads, etc. This was my late father's truck, and generally he kept things in good shape, as he was a mechanic, but I'm a bit disheartened at the condition, since I haven't put many miles on it in the last six years... I'm surprised he drove it with such a mismatching of worn parts. So, anyway, I'm on the home stretch. But after taking the brake pads out, there is a…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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I posted this on a Mopar forum but haven't gotten a response. Maybe someone here knows the trick. Basically i want to swap out my black plastic door handles for chrome ones. I've wanted to for a while, but never knew how to do it. I'm told that the pin has to be removed to do this, but don't know how to remove said pin.
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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Before the Buick was parked for its (seemingly never-ending) heart transplant, it was squealing badly. Brake pads, duh. I'm going to replace the pads and rotors tomorrow, I figure that as long as I'm going to be playing down there, I'd do the bushings. Is there an easy way to get them out?
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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Finally got my PRC 215 aftermarket heads today, hot off of the CNC machine. 215cc runner, 60cc combustion chamber, 2.04/1.60" valves, PRC valve springs. Great flow, great compression, great piston to valve clearance. Sadly, my life will be getting in the way of a proper tune/dyno run, it will probably be 6 weeks before I can post results. intake port combustion chamber exhaust port customized: total package:
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I had my C5 dyno'd at Texas-Speed today, the service was excellent, as always. The TSP crew really helped me out and went the extra mile to make sure my car was running at its best. Modifications: PRC 215 heads MS4 Cam LS6 intake manifold TSP 1.75" longtube headers w/ x-pipe underdrive pulley Textralia clutch and flywheel RPM differential with 3.90 gears Results: There was absolutely no 'special dyno treatment' for my car. There were no tricks used here, no icing of the intake manifold, no octane booster, just strapping the car down with pump gas (91 octane) and making some pulls. The intake manifold and throttle body are the next things that n…
Last reply by Chevy Nick, -
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I don't know how much help I'll get, this being a GM site and all, but maybe someone has delt with Chrysler's CD Changers. I have no idea how to work it or if it even works. I hooked up the stereo and CD changer to my car today to see if they worked. The Am/FM works, but the CD player doesn't...gives a disc read error every time I put a CD in. I'm not surprised since someone stuff change in the thing. The CD Changer powers up, but all that happens is all of the lights blink. I can't insert a disc in and when I press any of the eject buttons nothing happens. Meanwhile, the stereo doesn't seem to go to CD-C mode. The same button is used to toggle between the CD play…
Last reply by Cory Wolfe, -
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Okay, I'm getting tired of this. It looks like the 3rd car it going to need tires..not because of milage, but because of of rot. And since I just replaced TWO full sets of tires already (big $$), I've had to look at my options... While I'm not usually a fan of private tires...I looked at a set of National Finalist (60 bucks each, mounted on all) I was actually impressed by them...they reminded me of Cooper tires...50k warranty... I've heard all the horror stories of those "cheap" tires....but my coworkers are running Republic, and Sunny tires, with no issues at all..... And I take good care of my tires, and because of my wide size ( 195/70/14), there really is…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I'm not sure this been posted (at least in a while), so I thought I might throw it out....you know, being car guys (gals) and all... So, what does your car/truck/bike/wife drink? (and we are talking about motor oil here... )
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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The 2 front cooling fans don't come on even after you have driven for 15 miles. When you turn on the AC, neither fan works. The AC won't work. Is this expensive to repair? Do you have to check on several things before you will be able to find out the reason for the fans not working? If you continue to drive with the fans not working, will it damage the engine? I would never recommend a 97-03 Malibu. A real headache.
Last reply by fightingbee, -
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My friend's mom has a Delta 88 with a 307 that she's willing to part with for the right price. That price happens to be less than what a new carburetor would cost me, and as a bonus, I'd get a new AC compressor, radiator and transmission. I took it for a quick spin and it bogs down badly around 30mph. I'm thinking fuel filter or pump. Vapor lock? I only ask because if its a quick, easy fix, I can drive it to the secret lair instead of having to find a trailer or something to tow it with. BTW: By bogging down, I mean its surging, kinda like its not getting fuel to the carb.
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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Just have a quick question-anybody use this oil? Kendall SynBlend motor oil? I've been looking for ways to cut back (to save money), and I've decided that I'm going to cut back for the Cobalt. I'm still putting Mobil 1 in the Cav, And NAPA Full Synthtic (Valvoline Synpower) in the other car. Anyways, I've been consider running a blend in the Cobalt, because the Mobil 1 in it currently really is not doing that much for the car. Even the operating temp has not changed (like the Cav, which runs cooler at op temps now) Kinda interesting, considering it is the same engine.....granted, the Balt was running Quaker State dino up until 35k......... BUT, I still want t…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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OK, so here's the deal. On my Bonneville ('01 SLE), I've been unable to engage the parking brake since I got the car. I don't know if there's anything wrong with the cables or anything... ...but what I have found is that there's some kind of obstruction that keeps the pedal from traveling at all... almost like it was disassembled and then put back together wrong. Look at the uploaded picture... the piece right in the middle is what's blocked from traveling anywhere by the metal piece right behind it. (Sorry I don't have any more technical terms other than "piece") Has anyone (on a Bonnie or Park Avenue) seen something like this before? How might I go about r…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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So this nasty ass f@#ker of a storm has claimed a victim. Apparently this morning my mom was trying to get out of the driveway, which was plowed in with now frozen snow and ice. Had it in reverse and was trrying to get out. I woke up and came out to help...teh car was out of teh driveway but now sideways on the icy hill. I'm the one who always gets to drive teh cars in winter weather, so it was up to me to get it out of the way. This was easy...I put in in reverse again, gentle on the gas, and slowly backed out to teh opposite side of teh street. Then I put it in first and went down the hill then around the block. Since the GM has snow tires I took it out to meet with m…
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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I wished GM had done a better job with the cooling systems in the 1997-2003 Chevy Malibus. Do the 04-07 have the same problems? There has been litigation against GM over the coolant problems but you had to file before October of 2008. Do a search of LITIGATION AGAINST DEXCOOL. Can you use another kind of antifreeze other than Dex Cool?
Last reply by schuby87, -
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...Tires? Not for me....a neighbor likes the 3 and get one free.... And I really don't know much about them....(none around me) I think he said Futura tires....for his Focus....and he wants my Opinion.......
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Where do I find the VIN on this? needs to be verified by the Florida DMV for title transfer.
Last reply by Oracle of Delphi, -
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I waxed the 92 Regal this past weekend and got an oil change. So far, so good. Went to the train station on Monday. When I got to the parking lot after work, the door handle (spring) gave out. I had to get in through the passenger door, by unlocking the driver door through leaning over the console. What's the story with these? Easy to replace? Re-keying required? You can see most of the assembly inside the pillar. Oh well, after almost 17 years... Any help is appreciated.
Last reply by Justin Bimmer, -
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As I mentioned in another thread, the blower motor on my car went out last week. So I popped the hood, hoping the it was under there and not in some asinine place under the dash. Lo and behold, it was right there against the firewall on the passenger side, right where it should be. I left it in place (that was my first mistake) and went on my merry way to an auto part store. I go in and tell the guy what I need, he asks for the make and model, I tell him its an '89 LeSabre Estate, he types away furiously, goes to the back and comes back with a box. I look at it, and since it looks like a blower motor, I go on my way(second mistake). Its not until I get in the car an…
Last reply by SAmadei, -
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I used a K&N air filter in my previous ride, the leased 2006 Lacrosse, from 2,000 miles to 35,000 miles. During this time I cleaned it several times and it performed fine. I did not experience the parade of horribles others forewarned - such as messing up the MAP sensor. I think I did a pretty good job of oiling the filter right, without exceeding what was required of a recharge. It seemed to me that the car got better mileage with the filter in. Should I get one for my new ride? It has 3,500 miles on it now and I am thinking whether I should K&N or not.
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Mobil 1 right now. Granted, it is protecting, but it doesn't stay clean very long. I figure if I pay good money for a better oil-it should at least hold up better. I haven't even noticed a change in my Cobalt.... Makes me wonder if I make should change to a blend oil instead... Sorry, I had to vent....
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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If I start my car and let it warm up for 2 min in the cold weather it slips very bad. I have to rev it up to 4000 rpm just to get the car to move But if i start my car and take off right away. I dont get the transmission slipping problem. I did have the transmission fluid change but not the filter. its a 99 malibu with a 2.4 thanks
Last reply by fightingbee, -
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My dad and I are prepping my late grandfather's car to get it driving again (wheels haven't turned in a bit over seven weeks) and ultimately prep it for sale (I'm going to try and buy it myself, hopefully, but that's another story). I ran it for ten minutes here and there while he was hospitalized and it's been plugged in to the block heater, so the engine block isn't frozen. The battery is toast. Won't hold a charge, so obviously that needed to be replaced. When I did get the car running I noticed that the left rear tire pressure sensors are both displaying a tire pressure of "---"kPa rather than the regular 190 kPa being registered from the front tires. I know t…
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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So I went to start the Prizm today. The key turned into the first position, but wouldn't go any further. Attempts to get it to turn further with all 4 keys did nothing. At one point it wouldn't turn at all, now it's back to going to Accessory, but not any further. No idea what's wrong. I used it last night with no problem... Is it possibly due to the cold? Or is the ignition junk and has to be replaced? I hope the former but suspect the latter. v_v
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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What diesel engine would have been available in 1984 for the GMC Sierra line? I'm assuming there was a diesel available for teh half-ton pickups. The reason I'm asking is that I found an '84 GMC Sierra, 4x4, 8ft stepside bed, with a diesel engine for sale and would like to know if this is something I should stay away from. Here's a tiny pic from the Internet ad: TIA for your advise!!
Last reply by Camino LS6, -
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After some process of elimination, I am almost certain that my Regal, a 1992 W-body, needs at least one motor mount. (I think I asked a similar question before, but now I'm more convinced). If I'm going to do this, I want the engine/trans mounting system to have new mounts all around. Is this an easy thing to do via a visual inspection/are they "easy" to see? (I've tried looking for diagrams or pix on the Web and can't find them readily). How many are there? What does this service cost, parts and labor? Thanks.
Last reply by gmpartsgirl, -
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I just checked the engine oil in my new 2008 Saturn Vue 3.6L V6. I have just shy of 2800 miles on it and the engine oil is super dark. The oil in my old Jimmy with 136000 miles on it was never as dark as this. Do you think this is just because the engine is new and being broken in? The other thing I find odd - it seems like there's too much oil in the engine; It goes way up the dipstick past the 3 circles. (keep in mind the car has been sitting still all night). I'm thinking about taking it over to the Boob Lube and getting it changed now. I'm taking it on a road trip to Buffalo next week and I don't really want trouble. Opinions?
Last reply by PurdueGuy, -
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I first noticed the service engine light came on when I was driving yesterday, and when I accelerated, I heard a loud racket under the hood. The battery gauge on the dash also fluctuated a lot. Upon examination, the bottom of two pulleys on the passenger side was not turning. This pulley is driven by the ungrooved side of the serpentine belt. The pulley itself turned fairly easily by hand when I stopped the engine. The belt is about one year old too. The sound is caused by the belt rubbing hot against the pulley. What is this part that the pulley is turning? Would it require replacing, or is the belt too loose? I have included some pictures of the part in the atta…
Last reply by FAPTurbo, -
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Ok, this is going to suck. I might have to put tires on the Cobalt sooner than i thought. The Cav still gets good tires(they get replaced in the spring), but it looks like I might have to get cheaper tires for now. I was planning on Traction TAs(about 315 buck), but might have to drop to about 200 bucks... Are there any decent tires in this price range?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
A quick question for those who are good with tires... I'm looking for a good, solid tire for the wife's Cavalier. Nothing fancy, though I wouldn't mind a little extra grip. I'm not looking at pricey tires, private brands are fine as long as they are solid.... You have to remember, they are for a Cavvie... I was just at Wal-Mart, and found Goodyear Vivas for 60 buck each, and they did not look bad.... I;m going to be looking for tires for the Balt' soon too, though I'm considering Firestone right now...the Contis on it now suck big time..... I'm wondering about what I should consider.....I could just go to Belle Tire or something like that, but it' snice to k…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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My caprice today had a problem of shifting way to early into 3rd making the car shake and want to stall. any ideas? fluid is clean and cherry red. engine is solid for the most part.
Last reply by 2005 EquinoxLS, -
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Looks like someone wants a piece of the pie. I've seen numerous ads the last few days (print-now TV), where Valvoline is claiming that their syn oil is better than Mobil 1. They claim that it noy only wears better, but will last longer... It kinda suprised me.....usually Valvoline keeps to themselves.....so I wonder why the big claim there..... I wonder if Wallyworld will claim that their oil is better the Mobil 1 too? What do you guys think?
Last reply by gmpartsgirl, -
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in my dads nova's instrument cluster the numbers dashes words whatnot are the white-green color the luminescent type markings. is that correct for a 68? my 69 impala's are the green-white but i was under the impression, as was he, that the lettering and all was supposed to be plain white. can anyone confirm this for me?
Last reply by cletus8269, -
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So the last two times I've fueled up my truck it will lag out for a second when accelerating after being stopped at a stoplight. The first time it did it it was about 15 miles after I had filled up and lagged at two stoplights one right after another then was fine until the next fill up. This last time it did it about 20 miles after filling up and lagged out at three stops one right after another then was fine. I just replaced the fuel filter about 2,000 miles ago. Anyone think it could already be clogged or do you think my fuel injectors or fuel pump is bad?
Last reply by deftonesfan867, -
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Within the next few months, I plan to do some "update" work on my cars... Her Cavalier will be getting new Shocks/Struts, Brakes/Rotors, and new tires..... I've been debating about going with GM (dealership) parts, or more aftermarket ones. I'm really looking for stuff that is going to last, and I have been disappointed in how long the car's current stuff is holding up.... - Both struts and shocks are pretty rough for 45k -this will be the second pad/rotors in 40k (though it is common for the 03-05s) Should I stick with the same, or change?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I just bought a Buick Lucerne that has a 4.6L Northstar V-8 and I was wondering what grade of fuel would be best for it. This is to seek maximum fuel economy, performance and engine life. I want to keep this vehicle for several years so I want to use fuel that will help with overall longevity. Also, what engine oil would be best for long term operation and economy.
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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My G5 came with the standard non-leather wrapped wheel (Cruise Control but no audio controls). I've been thinking about treating myself to a leather wrapped one and wondering what the feasibility would be. http://cgi.ebay.ca/Chevy-Cobalt-Black-Leat...id=p3286.c0.m14 ^^^ I found this Ebay listing that has a leather wheel for the Cobalt/G5 but it's got the stereo controls on it. If I bought that part and had it interchanged with the one I got now would it be easy to wire up the radio buttons to work (ie is it a simple difference from the current factory hookup to as it would be with the Radio buttons installed from the factory)?
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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So, the Buick won't idle or run. I'll fire it up and it'll idle for a split second, then it starts running real rough and usually dies unless I give it more gas. It's almost like it has 'jumped time' but I know that's impossible since it doesn't possess a timing chain. Any ideas? I changed the fuel filter hoping that would be a cheap and easy fix. I know it probably needs a set of plugs and wires but I don't think that alone would cause it to completely crap out. Other thoughts I've had: 1) fuel pump (But the fuel pump sounds fine) 2) catalytic converter 3) O2 sensor (It has been flashing a code since we bought it.) 4) EGR valve (If I'm not mistaken, this will ca…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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fuel gauge
by loki- 5 replies
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i know someone else that's had this problem... i guessing it's happened " a lot" my gauge only can work sitting still. it's usually full , but letting it sit on hills it will read correctly, or sometimes sitting still ie, at a light, it will correct itself, slowly. shifting to nuetral will make the needle move quickly if it was working just seconds before, if it stays in gear it moves much slower. my friend had a GP that did this swapped out the sending unit/pump and didn't solve it... so it's probably a ground issue somewhere. has anyone heard anything about this, a common place to find the problem? it's been like this for a few years now... so i'm used to it…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Are the parts still available through GM to turn a regular third gen Camaro Z-28 into a 1LE clone? I've seen a few third gen Z cars in decent shape at decent prices, and am still thinking about buying one. Anyone know about the aluminium driveshaft, etc, for the conversion? Chris
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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I haven't needed to use them yet, but the hazard lights on my LeSabre dont work. The turn signals work just fine, the hazards, not so much. I assume its a relay issue (similar problems with my old '87 Dakota) but I'm not sure. Everything else electrical works just fine.
Last reply by CMG, -
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Well, the Cobalt is switched over... Put Mobil 1 in last night....not bad. Got a bit more pep...though I haven't driven enough to see if the operating temp is cooler....
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Just picked up a preowned 07 Denali XL on the weekend. Arizona vehicle, brought up by a broker into Canada. Speedo just over 46500 km (28000k miles). Did all the checks, Carfax was clean (undetailed) as well as some other reports up here in Canada. Talked to GM Canada, warranty will obviosuly be honored until 60k km's or Decemeber 2010 etc etc. So I saw it, drove it, went ahead with it. Vehicle in great shape, headsets and remote not even used. Little to no rock chips or anything. Had a battery drain issue right away, but that may or may not have been my issue from leaving something on, although it just happened with the vehicle sitting and the wife and I playing with…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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I am planning on painting the hood of my car. A friend told me I need to wet sand it first. Is this true? And if so, would something like this do a good job? http://www.autobodytoolmart.com/p-12829-15974.aspx
Last reply by balthazar, -
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About to pick up my brand new HHR SS. We live up in Canada, and the block heater is standard on most Canadian ordered vehicles, and is used 4 or 5 days in the winter, every winter. However, there is no block heater option available on the 2.0 turbo charged engine, currently in the HHR SS and soon to be new Cobalt SS. Being new to turbos, the turbo technology seems to be the only difference between the usual normally engine. So, is the fact that its a turbo the reason that a block heater isn't a factory option? I can't imagine what it would conflict with with a turbo charger and an engine block, but there also has to be a basic reason a block heater is not an optio…
Last reply by Avinash, -
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Alrighty, you guys talked me into it. The Cobalt is getting Mobil 1 this week when it gets its oil change...and a nice Wix filter........ But, this is the first time I've put Mobil 1 in a car with this many miles (40k), so I will be keeping an eye on things. Besides watching the usual (seals and gaskets), is there anything else I should keeping an eye out for? I'm looking forward to the better milage and lower operating temps.....
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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So the oher day my girlfriend was at a drive-thru in the Intrepid waiting on food when the car stalled (oil light came on but that was the only light). Later that day I waspicking my brother up from work, and was at a stoplight when it stalled on me. Just a slight shutter and then dead. Started right back up, although as I entered the highway on-ramp it reved higher than it should have, but it was fine after that. The problem is that it's been fine since then. Took it to the mechanic on Monday and they were unable to get it to stall. He suggested either the fuel pump or the timing chains. Today still no luck, and my girlfriend needed it so she picked it up and it was pr…
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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Real quick: There should be a gasket where a master cylinder meets the firewall on a car such as my Cutlass, correct? Today I got a new master cylinder, the root of all of my brake woes, and the leak is still there. When I removed the old master cylinder, there wasn't any gasket in the area I've described, so I'm leaning towards no as being the answer to my question, but I still have some cause to think a gasket might go there.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Article from Yahoo that makes GM seem almost cutting edge.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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Even the base 92 Regal coupe has the dashboard lights that stay on for 30 seconds after you shut the doors. Tonight, after going into Borders for an hour, I noticed the dash lights were still on when I got back to the parked car. When I got home, they failed to go off after 30 seconds. I fiddled with various controls to no avail. Come to think of it, about 2 months ago, driving through a forested area in the middle of the day, the dash lights came on and I DO NOT have the twilight sentinel option, so no automatic lights (it's a 92), but this never happened again until tonight. I have to get to work tomorrow, so I pulled the fuse and it's a temporary fix. HELP…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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It just didn't work when I went to leave the grocery store. My usually-faithful 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon, white with woodgrain and wire wheels. I bought my groceries and turned the key to start it and leave. It cranked (and cranked) but wouldn't actually start. The AAA sent a little pickup out but they're not allowed to touch anything on a customer's car - they could only jump-start it, which it didn't need. So then a AAA car hauler came, loaded it up, and dropped it off at a local Firestone store. They said it'll be a couple of hours before they can even get to it. It could be: the fuel pump? the pick-up core / modulator? the timing chain? Any …
Last reply by knightfan26917, -
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Some problems on our cars I thought I'd ask about... The first is on my Granddad's 2007 Impala LS (Optioned out just like ours except it's black). (as he describes it to me) When the car is warmed up and has been running for a bit, and the air conditioner is off, there is a a Rotten Egg smell coming through the vents with the air. When the air conditioner is on (recirc) or when the fan is off, the smell isn't there. The next few are on my G5: -When the car is off for a bit the gauges have a tendency to move up and down all by themselves for a while every once in a while. The best way to describe it is that the gauges are having siezures. -The car makes a b…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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I took the LeSabre to get gas tonight, and it was running fine. After I got my gas and paid, I get in and it fires right up. Then I shifted out of P. As soon as reverse engaged, the car died. Just died, everything. Interior lights, everyything, basically it faked a completely dead battery. I fiddled with the battery and alternator quickly, to maike sure everything was hooked up, then called to get a jump. Out of curiosity, I got back in and went to put the car into neutral, to make sure I'd be able to get it out from in front of the gas pump. Hark! As soon as I put it into reverse, all the lights came alive, the clock returned, and everything seemed right with th…
Last reply by Sixty8panther, -
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Well this morning dawned liked an ordinary day. The old Chevrolet fired up like always, and the 3.4 came to life. Drove fine until this afternoon when it began shifting hard while driving it. It gave you a little more a jerk and whining sound. I haven't had the trans serviced in a while (maybe not at all) it is 7 years old and has 76,xxx miles on it. Is my trans going? It doesn't feel like slipping tho, but hell it could be? Does it need to be serviced or am I out a tranny? Please help my trans knowledge is limited. PLEASE HELP! Thanks in advance.
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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So, it was bound to happen. After 2 and a half trouble free months of cruising, the Achieva hit a snag. Last night, I went to get some food, parked the car, ate. All systems go! Turned her back on, and the volt needle drops down, Charge light stays on: Upon consulting the manual, I get this: The car drove fine, but I noticed it ran quietly. Before this happened, the car would buzz a little at a stoplight. Could it be what the manual says. A drive belt was loose and gave up? Things look okay under the hood, all grounds are grounded. I didn't have time to go to a shop today, but I did take it for a short drive to see if anything changed. Light stays on…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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I'm having an issue with the "beater" (aka the Cobalt).. I've been doing updates on the car.....and some things to improve the gas milage... I got it up from 15 to a bit over 23 now. :sign0200: The fuel system cleaning and the air filter change (along with some other stuff) is helping...but in city driving the last few days, it seems going through gas again.. The one thing I haven't changed yet is the fuel filter yet....I wonder if that is really hurting my MPGs that much? I know it is due for one (has 32k now), but it would surprise me if the fuel filter is in that bad of shape. Then again, the previous owner was a bit rough on the car..... I'm planning …
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Not sure where to post this, so feel free to move where appropriate. This is a questions for insiders and people who have a lot of knowledge about platforms and the engineerings aspects of them. It involves the automaker not some project car. This would be for redesigning/heavily modifying an existing vehcile. How difficult is to to stretch the wheelbase, of a platform, widen it, lengthen the trunk, and change the roofline. In addition to these structural changes, the vehicle using this platform would need new suspnsion tuning, and work on NVH levels. Would it be easier an more cost effective to modify this platform to meet these requirements, or design a new platfo…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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This is on the old 92 Regal, nearing 250,000 miles. I think this issue has surfaced. You note it when the engine is torqued. Questions: How many are there (3800 + 4 sp transaxle)? Are they hard for the mechanic to get to? How much is parts and labor for this operation? I heard, once you're in there, to do all of them at the same time. Any experience and facts/figures? It would be appreciated.
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
- 3 replies
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okay so, i have a 99 malibu with the 3.1 and california emissions. i have a wierd surge that has been explained to me, and i've somewhere heard that it's important to keep the engine lubed because of the emissions thing. you guys are the smartest out there, i need professionals to break it all down for me. i wanna know how it works, why it does it, how it does it, and mainly what effect it has on my car and what i should do to balance out my loss of power because in these times i need to do all i can to get every sip of gas out of her... i would really appreciate your help. thanks guys...
Last reply by Croc, -
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- 12 replies
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I've been seeing that some folks have had problems with their 3.6HF engines in the outlook and stuff. Possibly problems with the crank or camshafts. What does anyone know on this?
Last reply by regfootball, -
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How much excess oil does it take to float the valves in a small block Chevy? I added a bit too much oil to my '68 Camaro (1/2 quart) and while I was draining it, I got to thinking; how much is too much? Would a half a quart over be enough to float the valves or would it have to be significantly more?
Last reply by CMG, -
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So I just gt off the phone with a guy who's selling a 1992 Saturn SL2 for $750. He tell me it runs and drives fine, but the reverse gear won't work after the car "warms up". What's up with that?
Last reply by Intrepidation, -
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Hi guys. I have a 1994 Buick Park Avenue 3.8L First Series. The car had been sitting in the drive way for a year and hadn't been turned on. About a month ago I bought it out of retirement. It needed a new tire and a new battery and that was it. Started right up. I got the oil changed, put some STP in the gas tank and filled the tank up. I got the oil changed 2 weeks ago. I was running an errand today and it started making this terrible knocking noise. The dashboard said there was so NO oil at all in the engine. I pulled over and checked the oil and it was full. I drove it back home since I was about 5 mins away. Now the car won't even start. My neighbors insist its an oil…
Last reply by 76ChevyTrucker, -
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The Roadmaster runs great. Strong, silent and in every way what you would expect of an LT-1 powered Buick with 56,000 miles. However.... It is very hard starting..... I have to crank it much longer than seems normal.. sometimes up to 5 seconds of cranking before she starts to catch. It starts every time... it just takes much longer to do it. It doesn't ping. It doesn't hesitate. It doesn't miss. It pulls really strong. It runs perfectly once it's running.... Today I was at the hardware store and another Roadmaster wagon was parked next to mine..... the Ms. Bluehair behind the wheel turned the key and it fires right up. What can I investigate?
Last reply by DBeaSSt, -
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Who makes the best Heavy duty shocks for a Safari van? I use it for hauling and I may soon be using it for some towing, and I need an upgrade. Chris
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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I am thinking of buying a used 05 Cadillac CTS with Lux & Sports package what is the difference in the ride and handling with it compared to base model I have driven several of the base models but none with Sports package. I want it sporty but to still ride good. stillen
Last reply by skepticman, -
- 1 follower
- 7 replies
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We have an 06 Pontiac Wave and for the past couple of months, the alarm has been going off. There is nothing around to give it a reason (no airplanes, loud noises,people, whatever). Is there a resolve? Thank you Bill
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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About that Valium- My little electrical problem has spread beyond the ABS and Radio to the turn signals, where the electrical fault is causing the blinkers on one side to go crazy fast while the 4-Ways and Right Turn Signals are fine. I've already checked the obvious (bulbs/Fuses) once again, and everything is fine. So now depending on where my foot is on the floor, my turn signals might work, or they might not. It gets more interesting- now, intermittently, when I lock or unlock the power locks, the locks go crazy and they unlock, lock, unlock, and lock again in random succession. I have to wait for them to stop to be able to gain access to the car from the outsid…
Last reply by vonVeezelsnider, -
- 1 follower
- 15 replies
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I have a 99 chevy malibu with 2.4. 78000 miles. When its below 40 degrees its hard to get the car moving. 3000rpm gets me around 2 mph. it runs fine after it has warmed up for 5 min. Above 40 degrees the car runs fine. I hooked up a scan gage to it and could not see a problem. can the spark plugs cause this problem? I never replaced them. thanks
Last reply by loki, -
got it put back together.. well, mostly my dad did, he drove it, it's much better from what he tells me. going to see what SES code is in it tomorrow and replace one boot that cracked that's on the valve cover. what was done, replace intake gaskets, ..didn't run, tore back down to them (vacuum leak, found the hose), rebuild it, idled rough, compression checked 150 - 175 psi on each cylinder, new plugs, wires from a 99 pont GA 3.4. hoping every thing's better, or at least back to only a seldom misfire in #4 (had the least comp)
Last reply by loki, -
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Ok, I'm a bit stumped on this one.... Last week, the wagon (93 Cav 3.1, 141k) would not start. New battery, fuses, and the Alt tested fine. Even with the new battery, the lights won't turn on, or the gauges won't even move. The only things I can think of would either be: the starter, or I have a wire that went bad somewhere. What is even worse is that my repair book disappeared. Does anyone know where there is a good guide for wiring to the engine for a 3.1? (cavalier) I don't want to let this thing sit too long....
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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- 1 follower
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Sometimes when I start my 2000 Tahoe 5.3 there is a very high pitched whine from below the vehicle ,not always but sometimes after it has been running and good and hot?
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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So I want to see if the `86 Caravan will start up. It's been sitting in the driveway for at least 3 year and 2 years since it was started. Here's what I know: It has no coolant...bone dry in the reservoir and the radiator. Checked the oil and the oil on the dipstick seemed very thick...like molasses. No idea about the condition of the gas in the tank. Does anyone have advice on the procedures for prepping it for startup?
Last reply by !!!TED!!!, -
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I had to drive out to Lansing earlier and for some reason or another I got to thinking about a project I mentioned last year sometime. Say one day I do decide to restore a C3. However, I decide that I want an LS1 and T56 in it. How do people do this? Do you put an OBDII system in the C3? Do you somehow remove the OBDII and sensors from the LS1 and trans? I'm sure there are threads on a Corvette forum on this exact swap, but I'm curious how they would do that... go from old school with no electronics to new(er) school with wires up the wazoo.
Last reply by NOS2006, -
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a year ago Someone at autotire told me my water pump weep hole was leaking coolent. Where is the weep hole on this car? I cant even find the water pump. I have not had to add any coolent to this car. was to guy just trying to make some money? its a 99 malibu 2.4 with 78.000 miles. thanks
Last reply by daves87rs, -
- 35 replies
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Can't you tell I'm psyched? So, my Cavalier really needs to take a big Valium... I think it's emotionally distraught. Not even a month out of a 500$ Water Pump job, now the following things have gone wrong with my car... -Wiper Arm broke off in my hands under gentle application ( ) -Gas Gauge stuck at full, will no longer move. -Radio Dead due to wiring issue (loose Connection?) under driver's side floor -ABS Light going on and off depending on where my left foot is. -Radio Sometimes Works depending on where my left foot is. So to sum things up, I'm going back to the dealer for another service appt (double ), I've got no tunes, sometimes no ABS, Limit…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
the nut i circled is right by the starter for orientation, also shown is the oil pan and trans pan i jacked up the car, from the front, and coolant streamed out, mostly in the area the red "box" is for a second or 2 and then almost stopped. so it's either coming from the back end of the engine, ?freeze plugs?, or from the left (rear facing) side of the engine, ?head gasket?...? any ideas?
Last reply by loki, -
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Okay, so here's the deal. I run a Holley 600 on one of my Camaros. Every week or so this winter I would go out and idle the car to keep everything in good shape, but the car hasn't been "on the road" in a year or so. I got it out the other day, everything seemed fine, and changed the plugs. With the new plugs in I fired it up and it purred like a kitten. I put it in gear and tried to make it to the gas station but ran out of fuel at the bottom of my drive. After adding about 3 gallons of fuel, the car started this thing where it wouldn't idle. I figured it had just sucked something up into the carb or fuel filter. So, for good measure, I added some fuel system cleaner…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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I have a 2007 Chevy Silverado Classic and while cleaning the dash the auto headlight sensor fell into the dash. Is there a way to get it back into position. Looking at the hole it is a simple quarter turn twist to hold it in place so it must have been twisted the wrong direction. I don't think it is broken just down in the hole.
Last reply by gmpartsgirl, -
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- 2 replies
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Hello all, I'm new to this forum, just found it today while looking for some info so I thought I'd give it a try here. I have a 1986 chevy 4x4 that I was going to install a rear locker in. When i pulled the rear cover I noticed that the spider gear shaft was wallowed out, mushroomed and had started to crack. So I sent the locker back and ordered a Detroit Truetrac limited slip differential. The questions that I have are, do i need to have the gears reset just changing the differential itself? The ring gear and pinion look great and I paln on reusing them and not disturbing the pinion at all. Any help I can get would be appreciated, I live in a small town and the only…
Last reply by henrysnead, -
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Anyone ever heard of this? A friend of mine is having this problem. He couldn't get the car into park, he muscled the button in and got it into park and now he can't get it back out of park. Something is obviously broken but has anyone experienced this and do you know a work around so he can drive the thing to the dealer?
Last reply by daves87rs,
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