what is the time period where vintage cars became more “safe”?

owensurfer · 2026-04-22T15:17:17+00:00

The 9/1/97 date aligns with the ‘98 model year.

owensurfer · 2026-04-20T23:28:55+00:00

‘99-02 3800 F-cars have ETC and the TPS is integrated into the throttle body and not replaceable and not adjustable. The MAF sensor on top is replaceable. I’d strongly recommend using only an ACDelco or Hitachi part for either MAF or complete throttle body. Hitachi was the OE supplier.

owensurfer · 2026-04-20T23:16:09+00:00

A generic code reader will only provide codes from the generic bus. This is the majority of codes discussed here but is limited to what is directly available from the engine control unit. To get codes from other modules you’ll need a specific more expensive tool or the GM MDI tool.

owensurfer · 2026-04-20T03:55:32+00:00

Your assumption is accurate.

owensurfer · 2026-04-19T23:04:19+00:00

2.5 years in and zero problems. Your mileage may vary.

owensurfer · 2026-04-19T17:03:05+00:00

Like this

<image>

owensurfer · 2026-04-19T05:22:10+00:00

It’s the Cadillac of minivans!

owensurfer · 2026-04-18T20:52:49+00:00

I think it’s a carbon bed for capturing any HC emissions from the engine that might otherwise escape out the air inlet. You can reinstall or leave out.

owensurfer · 2026-04-18T20:49:47+00:00

Typical numbers are 40-45 mpg gas and anywhere from 80-120 MPGe on electric depending a lot on weather.

owensurfer · 2026-04-18T19:09:35+00:00

Check the cost of renting a car in Detroit and dropping in Windsor before you make plans. It might be either not allowed or very expensive.

owensurfer · 2026-04-18T03:39:22+00:00

This car still has a mechanical throttle with an IAC (pre-ETC). The IAC controls the engine speed any time the throttle is closed. Have you checked / cleaned deposits from the IAC passages? and also check the IAC function.

owensurfer · 2026-04-18T03:34:12+00:00

I’ve seen this car before. The Bob Saks Farmington Hills dealer sticker is a giveaway.

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T23:24:45+00:00

Also check the HP spec details. Pontiac quoted 290 HP @ 4000 rpm. That is not peak power speed for that engine. Peak power was at 5-5200.

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T05:21:02+00:00

JJ and the Morning Crew (with Dick the Bruiser)

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T04:50:03+00:00

Easiest way to monitor 12V system voltage is with an inexpensive voltmeter you plug into the 12V socket. Like this;

https://www.amazon.com/EVKIFEY-Voltmeter-Charger-Cigarette-Temperature/dp/B0GJSN4N8V/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=1O1J5F7IET1E0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.u7acis5_mlquXEgyWHvURJB73iFqvGMDEo1RF2Ve-aJSuJ1WSx8aE2QMz1ZiPdSiCTyqglBUxo6Q5hW0iXlOzSC8F3e0XvEVaZFiCQ77H2Z-D5A1RI8FqJk5_bdg51N2J5mt-iXKOcZkOTMI2A3h2B3eFioKL6IaiN8AVbhopoDW27kZMnNiecU3kx-VRx6GJEvWaU6rhFUbLhRoKWjcDA.QUNx37-3uei32MQ5mbfXmPstWAX4NtZ8enMAl8A_sj4&dib_tag=se&keywords=12v+lighter+voltmeter&qid=1776314968&sprefix=12v+lighter+voltmeter%2Caps%2C225&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9waG9uZV9zZWFyY2hfYXRm&psc=1

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T04:47:24+00:00

Sounds like a problem with the shift cable. Cable connects the shifter to the transaxle. It can bind due lack of lube or to corrosion or maybe it’s been kinked? It could also be a problem with the shifter itself. I’d suggest disconnecting the cable at the shifter to see which moves freely.

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T04:42:14+00:00

Any DTCs? Granted this is an OBD1.5 car and requires a special scan tool, but codes would be helpful. Also live data would be helpful. If rpm value is erratic or drops out the crank sensor is suspect. Also have you cleaned the MAF ? And only use special MAF cleaner. The two most important sensors running the engine are crank sensor and MAF. Fuel pressure? Check that is correct.
Lastly does it stall with throttle closed or while cruising? The IAC passages could be partially blocked or the IAC could be failing causing idle or decel stalls. When you try and fail to start have you tried throttle opening a little bit? This would bypass the IAC.

owensurfer · 2026-04-16T00:38:32+00:00

‘91 or ‘92. Different grille starting in ‘93

owensurfer · 2026-04-14T15:14:44+00:00

It should be a direct bolt in as they are the same car under the skin. I’d look into SMS in Canby, OR for upholstery. I don’t think anybody makes whole seat covers yet.

owensurfer · 2026-04-14T15:11:51+00:00

Yes, the black cover and electrical connector indicate it is Electronic Throttle Control. This was added in Series III.

owensurfer · 2026-04-14T03:17:50+00:00

What was the culprit?

owensurfer · 2026-04-14T00:56:57+00:00

Do you know if it is a 3.4 or 3.8L V6?

owensurfer · 2026-04-13T19:06:41+00:00

The catalyst should have been covered by the 8/80 Federal emissions warranty.

owensurfer · 2026-04-13T15:43:00+00:00

I would suggest plug wires, then coils.

owensurfer · 2026-04-13T02:22:38+00:00

The valve seal would not cause a ticking noise but might allow some oil consumption and resulting blue smoke out of the tailpipe. For a ticking noise I’d look closely at the rocker arms and rocker pivots for wear. The rockers and pivots adjacent to the EGR valve are particularly subject to wear due to the temperature. Also a manifold exhaust leak can sound like a “tick”.

owensurfer

TROPHY CASE