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View Full Version : Confirmation on a code


Zaloryan
11-10-2008, 03:36 AM
I just checked out a new code my car has thrown. [again] :( For some reason, Bessie is having 'Electronic Spark Failure.' The ignition system is pretty much completely new.

I have replaced:
3 Coil Packs
Crankshaft Position Sensor
Ignition Wires (1 year ago BWD magnetic core)
Spark Plugs (1 year ago AC Delco replaced with wires)
ECM

Keep in mind, these parts have been replaced not because of this problem, but because they have either failed or been highly suspected of the problem. I seriously doubt the ECM has much to do with this, but I threw it in just in case.

So, I think my Ignition Control Module is going out. Any ideas?
centurycoupe
11-10-2008, 11:36 AM
did it stall when it threw the code?
dcjredline
11-10-2008, 12:02 PM
ESC is a different thing than the ICM why wouldn't u suspect the ESC module first? Do you have a GM service manual?
Zaloryan
11-10-2008, 01:56 PM
What do you mean as ESC? I replaced the ECM for a different problem, but I listed it in as replaced in case it was related to the problem. I do have a GM service manual, but I haven't looked into it yet. I just wondered what everyone on here thought it may be.

I don't recall it stalling when the code was thrown.
dcjredline
11-10-2008, 02:27 PM
ESC= Electronic Spark Control. There is usually a module that does the job separate from the ignition module.
Jr's3800
11-10-2008, 07:25 PM
This is a 3300 right?

Its possible to have a bad ignition control module...

But I believe that the Mem-Cal Chip in you car has the circuitry for the spark control( I have virtually never seen one of these fail )

Its not too hard to remove the ICM from your car and have it tested at Autozone.. If it fails the first time its most likely shot.. You will want then to run several cycles on the ICM to warm it up and see if it fails at any time...
Zaloryan
11-11-2008, 02:26 AM
Okay, thanks everyone! I'll test it shortly and report.
Zaloryan
11-13-2008, 12:42 AM
Went to my employer (O'Reilly) this evening and tested the ignition control module. Tested it three times in a row and it failed miserably. (Every red light blinked!) For some reason, the car continues to run despite it failing the entire test. This would also explain Bessie idling at 1500RPM to 2000RPM while hot. So, I apparently replaced my computer and thermostat for no reason. I also re-adjusted my TPS three times to no avail. I'll admit, I'm not the brightest at troubleshooting. :slap: