WHAT AM I MISSING?! Crank, no start.

[econoaddict]

Now it cranks and won't start. No CEL when key is 'on'.

Mine did exactly this and it was all due to a bad vaf.
Did all the usual, replaced every part of the ignition system before we unplugged the vaf with the key on and the light came on, replugged it and the light went out. Put in a used one and has ran great ever since.

[200KGPGTP]

Mine did exactly this and it was all due to a bad vaf.
Did all the usual, replaced every part of the ignition system before we unplugged the vaf with the key on and the light came on, replugged it and the light went out. Put in a used one and has ran great ever since.

Read the update post above. I got it started and it ran very well for about 30 seconds, then the fuse popped again.




Also, I think I'll bypass the normal charge wire and run a new one to the battery... there's an idea!!

[200KGPGTP]

Welp, no luck. The charge wire appeared fine.

I unhooked everything to the alternator and tried to start it hooked up to the Grand Prix. It's back to cranking and not starting. I had the multimeter hooked up to the battery and watched it as I went to hook the charge wire back up. As soon as the hoop touched the post, it sparked quite large and blew the main fuse yet again. I'm not sure if it's because there was a built up charge in the alt from cranking or because there was an actual problem......

I'm getting awfully aggravated, especially if I have to buy ANOTHER icm. I have the reciept, I can't remember if it had a warranty or not.

AAAHHHHHHHHH

[sharkstiva]

Wish I could help. I had this trouble a while back, but my fix was icm. I'll go through some diagrams and see if I can help. What year is yours?

[econoaddict]

As of your last post I would pull the alternator and have it tested, sounds like an internal short. If it tests bad and still doesn't run after replacing, turn your key on, if no check engine light unplug the vaf and see if it turns on.

[zoom zoom]

wow, this is bad lol, 4 days later your still stranded! I wish I could help ya out, but anything I say would probably just cost money and not fix anything! Good luck tho!

[FestYboy]

I had already removed the seatbelt fuse. And which wires? The main charge wire or the other pigtail?

Someone told me this means there is a short in a main power line oh say from the alt to the batt for example. Possibility?

both, the main and the 2 wire pigtail.

[nitrofarm]

Hang in the GTP

Welp, no luck. The charge wire appeared fine.

I unhooked everything to the alternator and tried to start it hooked up to the Grand Prix. It's back to cranking and not starting. I had the multimeter hooked up to the battery and watched it as I went to hook the charge wire back up. As soon as the hoop touched the post, it sparked quite large and blew the main fuse yet again. I'm not sure if it's because there was a built up charge in the alt from cranking or because there was an actual problem......

For clarification: The 30 amp fuse under dash labeled "Belts" is REMOVED correct?
I'm really thinking this is our problem.
Also for clarification:The plastic insulator washer on the Alt post is still there correct? If its gone or the ring terminal touches the Alt housing even a little.You'll get your symtom.
Also FYI: The PRCM "Passive Restraint Control Module" is connected in "Parallel" with the "Main" 25 amp fuse.
I'm hoping you didnt fry icm also,but it prolly blew in that 30 sec run time....

[200KGPGTP]

Yes the 30a seat belt fuse in the cabin is removed..

The alt is brand new... Could it still be bad?

[georgeb]

Don't mean to keep returning to this issue of suffering, but would it be feasable for your lady to strap-tow you with that Pontiac back to your warm, well-equipped home facility?

[200KGPGTP]

You mean my man? Lol. That might be possible. I don't have any straps or chains though. I was DEBATING just pushing it home.... it's really not that far.

[nitrofarm]

Yes the 30a seat belt fuse in the cabin is removed..

The alt is brand new... Could it still be bad?

Yes for sure it could be bad. I would pull it and have it tested. Considering you dont want to try to crank it till you find something definitive.

[200KGPGTP]

Ok, testing the alternator is the next step. Hopefully I can get it home before I do that larger job. That kinda upsets me, I had installed it PERFECTLY. The old alternator didn't even have all the bracing on it, etc. I spent hours getting bolts that would work, lining it all up, tightening the belt, etc.

But if it's the issue, i'll be glad to get it back on the road. Cross your fingers.... again!!


ALSO!!!!

There is a very good chance I'll have a second Festiva by tomorrow night

[kellen302]

Festivas tow festivas tow festivas

[milehighbear]

Hey, if you have to, just line up the bumpers on both cars, see if they match, have other car push it till you hit 25-30 MPH and then back off and you can coast rest way home or until you need to stop and a sign then push it again. You can put an old tire between the two also if you want to keep them apart. You just need to get it home to work on it properly