ignition problems

Don Crandol

Cadet
Joined
Dec 12, 2004
Messages
8
1997 5.7 alpha generation, 4 barrel thunderbolt V ignition. Motor starts fine and runs fine until temperature comes up. Starts missing and eventually cuts off and will not restart untill it cools down completely.Have ruled out fuel delivery problems and have replaced plugs distibuter cap rotor button and coil. Can the ignition module and the knock module be checked, or do I just replace them and hope for the best?Any other possibilities? Thanks in advance Don
 

llerrad

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jan 21, 2003
Messages
172
Re: ignition problems

Change the ignition module component gone in the board.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: ignition problems

While the ignition module is one possiblity, it's not the only one. Warm the engine up till it stops running and follow these procedures.
 

John_S

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 21, 2004
Messages
4,269
Re: ignition problems

Only a thought, but if you end up on the block "Replace Ignition Module" and given the heat related nature of the problem, you might be able to further isolate before purchasing, which I assume to be an expensive part. My thought is to use some "cool it" type spray. This is common with elec techs, for component or bad solder joint isolation. Should be able to find at Radio Shack or other electronics supplier. What I have on hand is "Freeze Mist" made by GC electronics. You do need to be careful with it, because it is capable of some very low temps, minus 60F with "Freeze Mist". After applying some directly on the module, if your engine starts afterwards, would check the module mounting. I am pretty sure some type of heat sink compound is used between the module and the metal mount. Maybe worth redoing this heat sink mounting before replacing module. I don't believe anything is repairable on the module, unless you see exposed solder joints. <br /><br />I would like feedback from others on this, especially if this stuff is a no-no for boats. The stuff I have says "non-residue, non-flamable, and contains no class 1 or 2 chemicals". <br /><br />Given my understanding of how the knock control system works, I'd say it is unlikely causing the problem. The knock module either applys a signal to the ICM or it doesn't. Would change the advance timing, but shouldn't cause it not to start.<br /><br />PS: I am curious on what one of these modules cost.
 

MGallik

Seaman
Joined
Apr 4, 2003
Messages
71
Re: ignition problems

That module is over $350. You can get thermal grease at Radio Shack. Spread a thin layer (enough to make full contact) between the module and the distributor. It cools the module by increasing the heat transfer from the module to the distributor housing.
 

Don Crandol

Cadet
Joined
Dec 12, 2004
Messages
8
Re: ignition problems

Just wanted to let everyone know that I appreciate the responses and that I did finally get everything running right again. It turned out to be the sensor in the distributer.Thanks especially for the step by step trouble shooting page as it saved me about $350.00. Great forum,I'm glad I found it.Just reading over the other posts I've learned alot.Thanks again guys Don
 
Top