I don't know if everyone talks about the T&C here, but I just bought one, its a 96 LXi, with the 3.8L and it has an idling problem, I can not tell if its a cracked sparkplug, vacuum leak, or what it is. It has an issue like its missing when under throttle and has a lack of power for pulling up hill or downshifting. Any help would be appreciated.

 

A 96 should have a built in trouble code display.
It's the check engine light.
From ignition OFF.
Turn Ignition On, Off, On Off, On Off. But dont turn far enough to start the starter.
Then count the flashes on the Check Engine Light.
A gap in the flashes starts a new number.
Check the codes against the listed ones on this or other websites.
A misfiring cylinder or other problems will show up.
A flashing 55 is the end of the test, not an error.
Or get to a Autozone and borrow their free usage code reader.


Good Luck
Tom

 

Ok I got my codes but can not find the list to compare to. Do I just search CEL code list?

 

The codes that flash out on the CEL are 12, 13, and 43 then it does the 55 code

 

<LI>Code 12-Direct battery input to PCM was disconnected within the last 50 Key-On cycles.

<LI>Code 13-No variation in MAP sensor signal is detected or no difference is recognized between the engine MAP reading and the stored barometric pressure reading from start-up.

<LI>Code 43-Ignition coil #1, 2, or 3 primary circuits-peak primary circuit current not achieved within the maximum allowable dwell time.

<LI>Code 43-Engine cylinder misfire-engine cylinder misfire detected in one or more cylinders.

Hope this helps.
Coil or plugs maybe.
And a MAP sensor.

Good Luck,
Tom

 

Thanks, I had found the misfire/coil code, but have not been able to find the 13. I will be purchasing these parts today!

 

Does anyone have the location of the MAP Sensor??

 

Ok found and replaced the MAP, replaced the coilpack, plugs and wires, still not running correctly. Are there any suggestions?

 

If you clear all those errors.

You can check the vacuum, Especially the EGR system.

You wrote that it had a bad idle... Is it the same? Is it fast?

Its very hard to diag. from a computer.And I can only guess from here.

Let us know if you have any further idea's.

Good Luck,
Tom

 

The EGR tube was not attached to the EGR valve. I had to buy bolts and put it back together. I may not have gotten it all the way tight, would this cause these problems if it is not hooked up properly? The van will not idle at all, you have to hold gas to it to keep it running and even then it has a major miss in the engine. I kind of smooths out above 3000 rpm, but you can still tell that there is a miss.