1997 Chevrolet Cavalier - Page 3 - Answered Questions & Fixed issues

does the engine stay idling with no response to throttle movement? or does the engine cut-out when the throttle is pushed?

Undo the motor... wait a good ten fifteen minutes push wipers down reconnect the motor try again

Could be a combination of a number of things causing this issue. Misfiring caused by faulty plugs or wires, a vacuum leak, the injectors need cleaning, higher octane gas should be used for a period of time, at least the next 2-3 fill ups, the throttle body needs to be inspected and thoroughly cleaned etc.

Check your owners manual for the correct shift pastern...It is a natural H pattern, with 5th gear upper right...reverse should be all the way to the right and lower right to engage...the knob does not always indicate the correct pattern...may have been changed...also be sure it is a 5 speed...most of these Cavaliers were 4 speeds...with reverse being upper right instead of 5th gear upper right...confirm in your owners manual if possible...will show illustration...Hope this helps.

Or a bad starter.

the power goes from the ignition switch when in the start position down to the starter solenoid Normally a small terminal between or next to the two big terminals the power goes through the solenoid windings to earth (connected to the big terminal that goes into the starter housing this action energizers the solenoid which pulls the pinion into mesh with the ring gear and closes the big terminals in the solenoid allowing full battery power to the starter In some cars that wire from the ignition switch may go to a second starter solenoid first so it will be necessary to follow the wire to find a fault or loose connection

Not all issue with your car are related to the check engine light, like the brakes. Is there something else going on with your car?

Invisible , if it's stick shifter it most likely don't have a cable.

I suspect a keyway came out or a shaft broke. I don't think the shaft broke or you would have known.

It should have a plastic cover on it. It will look like a valve stem for a tire inside (Schrader valve). You want the high side.

Timing Chain and Gears REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 2.2L Engine Fig. 1: The timing marks on the sprockets should be in alignment. If not, turn the crankshaft until the marks are aligned
Fig. 2: The timing chain tensioner is retained by a Torx head bolt (1) and a regular hex head bolt (2)
Fig. 3: Unfasten the camshaft sprocket bolt
Fig. 4: Remove the camshaft sprocket and the timing chain at the same time . . .
Fig. 5: . . . then remove the tensioner assembly
Fig. 6: Compress the tensioner spring and insert a cotter pin or nail in the hole provided to hold the tensioner in position

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the front cover as previously detailed.
3. Place the No. 1 piston at TDC of the compression stroke so that the marks on the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets are in alignment (see illustration).
4. Loosen the timing chain tensioner nut as far as possible without actually removing it.
5. Remove the camshaft sprocket bolts and remove the sprocket and chain together. If the sprocket does not slide from the camshaft easily, a light blow with a soft mallet at the lower edge of the sprocket will dislodge it.
6. Using a suitable gear puller, remove the crankshaft sprocket. To install:
   
7. Press the crankshaft sprocket back onto the crankshaft.
8. Install the timing chain over the camshaft sprocket and then around the crankshaft sprocket. Make sure that the marks on the two sprockets are in alignment (see illustration). Lubricate the thrust surface with Molykote® or its equivalent.
9. Align the dowel in the camshaft with the dowel hole in the sprocket and then install the sprocket onto the camshaft. Use the mounting bolts to draw the sprocket onto the camshaft and then tighten to 66–68 ft. lbs. (91–95 Nm).
10. Lubricate the timing chain with clean engine oil. Tighten the chain tensioner.
11. Installation of the remaining components is in the reverse order of removal. Fig. 7: Exploded view of the timing chain and sprockets — 2.2L OHV engine
    

you need to have the box that goes to the ignition,you need to have the key fob and key also,unlock and lock the doors with the key fob a couple times then insert the key and start it,if it doesnt work,call a dealer

On most models you remove the lower seat to expose the bolts holding the back in place.

it depends...you did not mention if it is a manual or automatic transmission........

Sounds like cam belt has snapped. If it broke while starting, could be cheap fix...new belt. Worst case: cylinder head off for overhaul...bent valves / pistons replaced.

sounds like it could be your fuel pump

did you get grease or anti freeze on the belt?? get belt dressing and follow instructions

Who manufactured the tach? Maybe they have a web site and instructions? Did you tach come with instructions? I looked at autometer instructions for your vehicle, have to use an adapter, it ties into the power wire for your coil pack. The adapter costs about 97 bucks, not including tax. Different tach manufacturers may have different hook-ups?

disconnect the battery for a few minutes If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/david_4c166ba81493f541

Assuming auto transmission: Pan Removal and Replacement 4.0 quarts After Complete Overhaul 6.9 quarts