My '86 GT 2.8 V-6 with Getrag 5-speed suddenly won't turn over and I'm going to do a code check on it, but I don't have a list that tells what the codes problem area is. My Black and Decker analytic charger reads F-2, which means bad connection, so it won't charge, but the connection is good at the battery. It gives a battery voltage check of 12.8 volts, which is normal (especially for 28 degree weather). As soon as I find my battery wrench, I'm going to see how the charger reads with the battery disconnected. And I'm going to run a ECM code check too. If any of you electrical system experts have any suggestions, please speculate.

[This message has been edited by hypo327 (edited 01-12-2011).]

https://www.fiero.nl/cgi-bin/main.cgi?ECMCodes

Front page of the Forum has a link

There are a few things you could expand upon that would help troubleshoot:

1. What does the engine do when you try to crank it? Does it click, crank slowly, or do nothing at all?
a. if it clicks, there's not enough current getting to the starter to turn the engine over;
b. if it does nothing, then it could be your clutch neutral safety switch isn't making contact, or a bad starter, starter solenoid, or battery;
c. if it cranks too slowly to start, it's usually a weak battery.

2. How old is the battery? It's quite possible to get 12V but with low acid levels, not be able to generate enough current... especially when it's cold outside.

3. When was the last time you cleaned the battery and starter terminals? The side post batteries are notorious for getting corrosion between the lead battery terminals and the steel eyelets on the cables (galvanic reaction), especially given that they're under the grill that allows water to fall on them. The starter terminals are just in a dirty area and ofter get corroded too;

Lastly, it's a good idea to run a code check every now and then simply because some codes aren't latched, like EGR for example. But you won't find anything there related to your engine not turning over. The ECM doesn't measure those kinds of inputs. Good luck!

quote Originally posted by Bloozberry: There are a few things you could expand upon that would help troubleshoot: 1. What does the engine do when you try to crank it? Does it click, crank slowly, or do nothing at all? a. if it clicks, there's not enough current getting to the starter to turn the engine over; b. if it does nothing, then it could be your clutch neutral safety switch isn't making contact, or a bad starter, starter solenoid, or battery; c. if it cranks too slowly to start, it's usually a weak battery. 2. How old is the battery? It's quite possible to get 12V but with low acid levels, not be able to generate enough current... especially when it's cold outside. 3. When was the last time you cleaned the battery and starter terminals? The side post batteries are notorious for getting corrosion between the lead battery terminals and the steel eyelets on the cables (galvanic reaction), especially given that they're under the grill that allows water to fall on them. The starter terminals are just in a dirty area and ofter get corroded too; Lastly, it's a good idea to run a code check every now and then simply because some codes aren't latched, like EGR for example. But you won't find anything there related to your engine not turning over. The ECM doesn't measure those kinds of inputs. Good luck!

My car is in excellent condition every where. I just had a new starter installed & up-graded to a 3.1 starter. It does nothing when turning the ignition. I ran a code check but got nothing but 12's. My mechanic finally got out of jail, came over and checked it out, and determined it must be a faulty starter solenoid. It's guaranteed, so we are pulling it this Monday. I hope that solves the problem...it should.