I have a 1996 Buick Roadmaster that has me stumped.

20

Asked by mzcluvr2000 Sep 28, 2017 at 03:30 PM about the 1996 Buick Roadmaster Limited Sedan RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Mind you, this car DOES NOT HAVE A TRADITIONAL DISTRIBUTOR. I say
again, This car DOES NOT HAVE A TRADITIONAL DISTRIBUTOR so going
to the distributor for the answer is NOT an option. I have replaced the
Optispark Distributor already and still no start. I know it is something simple
that I am overlooking. The details leading up. It was running ok. The
individual was warned about driving with a leaking water pump. He did not
pay attention. The car got overheated and shut down and has not restarted
since. I have replaced the Crank sensor as well. What am I missing?

7 Answers

38,915

I'll assume it turns over , check for proper spark , fuel pressure , is injector(s) working ? compression and timing tests are next seeing as it did over heat .

1 people found this helpful.

There is a fuse wire running to the starter solenoid that allowed current to the ignition. Check all wires at the starter solenoid with the ignition on.

10,210

You might need to disconnect the battery to reset the ECM from the overheating.

38,915

what's up with the distributor ,? did you make it yourself in the basement ?

2 people found this helpful.
1,305

Check the ignition module. On those it is located on the driver side cylinder head in the front of the engine (under the coil). It could have possibly failed from the extra heat. I would also look at the crankshaft position sensor plug. If that pump was leaking the coolant will get into it and cause a short. Check it out and dry it if you see any kind of moisture. (been there and done that) Beat up chevy: The distributor on the LT1 engines is located behind the water pump on the front of the engine. A) This makes them hard to replace. B) when a water pump bearing fails the coolant will leak onto the distributor causing a premature failure. (double cost wammy) and C) the are still even after 20 + years expensive to replace.

4 people found this helpful.
20

Finally, an intelligent response. Crank sensor replaced, optispark distributor replaced, all possible electrical issues tested by digital volt meter...power everywhere, fuel pump and pressure tested...all before posting. Ignition module was the problem. Replaced today and it fired right up. And for the record....I did not build the distributor in the basement. Its NOT a traditional distributor with a cap and module under the cap is what I was meaning. Those answers were all I was finding which is why I wanted to ward off an answer like that. Thank you DanR63.

2 people found this helpful.
1,305

You are very welcome Glad I could help. This is what these forums are all about! Take care Dan

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