1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera Logo
Anonymous Posted on Aug 14, 2012

Crankshaft sensor and ignition module keep taking a dump.

I have replaced the main ECM, Ignition Module (Now 3 times), Crankshaft Sensor (Now 4 times), Coil Packs, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injector, spark plug wires and spark plugs. Why after about 2-4 weeks, the ignition module and crankshaft sensor fail? I have bought everything new at Autozone. Granted its all warrantied, but this is ridiculous! HELP PLEASE!!

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  • Posted on Aug 15, 2012
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I would check for a short somewhere in the wire harness or check the bell for true on crank balancer make sure its not rubbing pickup

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  • Anonymous Aug 15, 2012

    What do you mean "check the bell"? I just replaced the crank sensor and ign module 2 days ago. It runs really smooth now. But afraid it won't last!

  • Anonymous Aug 16, 2012

    bell is the interupter ring

  • Anonymous Aug 16, 2012

    make sure air gap is correct on instalation take a special tool .

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1 Related Answer

SCOTT OCONNOR

  • 169 Answers
  • Posted on Sep 17, 2011

SOURCE: i have changed the battery , alternator, spark

I am sorry you have already done all that work! You need to check the cam sensor magnet on the cam gear. You can remove the cam sensor which has 3 wires going to it and is mounted behind the belt near the waterpump. the magnet will sometimes break off its holder and that will keep the engine from starting as it can not sequence the fuel injectors. if the magnet is ok then you probably have a bad timing chain and gear. That series 3.8 buick engine has a camshaft gear which has an aluminum gear with PLASTIC teeth. Yes plastic teeth. The plastic becomes old and brittle and breaks off leaving you with an engine that wont start. Dont feel bad or dumb for replacing what you did as I have seen many TECHNICIANS who have done the same thing as I have worked for the G.M. dealer for years. I give you credit for doing what you could! Unfortunately you will probably have to replace the timing chain and gears. It is not a SUPER hard job but expierence in doing this type of repair is recommended. If you DO do it yourself, Make this one note. The 2 bolts holding the cam gear to the camshaft are TWO DIFFRENT LENGTHS! The longer one goes thru the cam sensor which is mounted on the face of the cam gear. Good luck! Scott
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Diagnostic Aids
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• Inspect for the following conditions:
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I would sugest you take your vehicle to a qualified repair shop an have it diagnosed , but i can tell that's not your way , is it . We diagnose not replace part's .
Replace the IC module. Refer to Ignition Control Module Replacement .
Did you complete the replacement?
Go to Step 11
--
10
Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement .
Did you complete the replacement?
Go to Step 11
If it starts an runs it's not the crank sensor behind the crankshaft pulley .
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