Skyhawk L4-112 1.8L Turbo VIN J FI (1984)
Engine Oil: Customer Interest
Engine - Hard Cold Starting Condition
Bulletin
84-6E-18
Date
May '84
Ref. No.
84-226-6E
SUBJECT:
DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES FOR COLD START CONDITIONS
MODELS AFFECTED:
1983 - 1984 BUICK 4-CYLINDER 1.8L AND 2.5L ENGINES (ENGINE CODES O AND R)
The following items should be checked when encountering a comment of hard starting on Buicks equipped with 1.8L and 2.5L 4-cylinder engines at 0~F
(32~C) and below ambients.
1.
Engine spark plug application should be:
1.8 OHC-R44XLS-.35" gap 2.5 EFI-R43TSX-.060" gap
2.
Engine should be serviced with 5W-30 low friction energy conserving oil. GM Goodwrench oil is one possible source for this oil.
3.
Battery must be at least 80% state of charge.
4.
Check for stored codes. Replace any components indicated by code. Check connectors.
5.
Check for proper operation of fuel pump relay. Also verifiy proper operation of fuel pump check valve.
6.
Fuel pressure should be between 9-13 p.s.i. (62-90 KPa) with the engine running.
7.
Check coolant sensor (open sensor will cause excessive fuel delivery on cranking, shorted sensor will result in lean condition).
8.
Perform HEI system check (refer to 1984 Service Manual Sections 6D, 6E2 and 6E3).
9.
Generator capable of producing at least 95% of rated output.
10.
Inspect fuel for contamination.
11.
Check operation of block heater (if equipped).
All the above items are important for the proper starting of these engines at ambients as low as -20~F (-36~C).
