Z won't start

[Jetjock]

I've been wrestilng with this problem for a while now. When I got my 92Z, I pulled the starter and replaced it with a new one as well as fuel injectors, plugs, coil packs, etc. When the first time that the car wouldn't start, I had just had the clutch replaced by Jim Van Dorn. When it happened, he told me that it was the clutch safety switch. When I got home, I bypassed the safety switch and have not had another problem since then.


Jump ahead to 2014 and I bought the 93 Ruby Z. Low mileage, fun to drive and then the problems started. Minor issues at first like cruise control not working, stuff like that. Gordon fixed a lot of problems with the car. However, when the car started it's current problem, I did bypass the clutch switch and it seemed to work. However the fix did not take. I have removed the kick panel many times to get it started. However, now I have this issue.


I have another issue to correct while I'm under the steering wheel. I want to get the car ready for NCRS so I will get a new battery for the car and go through the testing. I do have the car manuals and the checklist items to check for what is wrong. However, if I do have to pull the plenum, there might be a problem. I have pulled the plenum on my 92 many times and have had no issues. I tried to pull the plenum on my 93 for an another issue and I had to stop because I ran into many issues with it. It has a lot more connections with it than the 92 did and really surprised me. However, if I have to do it, I'll just have to take my time with it.


Anyway, I'll get to work on this tomorrow and let you know.


Roy

[Jetjock]

Update:


I went through the checklist and checked for any CCM codes. I got one for Code 51 which is the VATS. I have three keys to the car so I checked out each one of them. Two out of three started the engine. The original key, that I got from the previous owner, did not. I don't know if the pellet goes bad after a time or what. The car starting issue has been resolved. Now for the hi/lo beam problem. Thanks for your help.


Roy

[viper107]

the vats ignition switch(key part) also has micro wires running from the switch(keys) through the colum and plugs down by your feet, those wires break at the switch from turning on and off the engine, this can cause a intermit start fault due to the wires breaking current,then not,then again, never saw a key go bad,but im shure somebody has

[viper107]

i have also seen the vats brain go bad once, 99 .9 % i see the vats switch broke wires

[oldpro]

I had a key go bad on my 90'once been using the second key ever since

[Paul Workman]

Originally Posted by oldpro

I had a key go bad on my 90'once been using the second key ever since

My local locksmith and GM dealer both have readers that will tell which pellet you need on your ignition key. With your working key as a blank, the new key can be cut. Then you'll have a fresh key with the right pellet.

OR, you can read the resistance across the pellet and compare it to the (attached) chart and select a blank yourself.

[Starman]

Have been temporarily stranded twice now with no starts with 1991. 1-2 year old battery, kept on a tender. Drove the car several miles on the highway and parked. After about an hour sitting, no starter, no fuel pumps. Cold had 13.9V at battery and 12.4 cranking. Was jumped 2nd time, nothing, then just up and started as getting ready to look for match to burn it down.

Assumed original, 57K mile starter getting heat soaked. Drove car for 45 minutes without shutting off (learning). Parked in garage and let sit an hour, started right up (note - did not lock in garage). Using "new - unused original" key. Hot voltages were lower.

Going to repeat test and lock in garage this weekend. Anyone know the VATS retry window off the top?

[DRM500RUBYZR-1]

About ten minutes.

However, next time observe your security light, before, during and after to confirm or eliminate VATS as the issue.

Vats also sets a DTC in history. check and see what you have stored.

Clean your key and try your other.

Keep us posted.

Marty

[Young1]

Yes to Marty. Clean the key pellets and ignition with contact cleaner. That was the fix for me once for a no start. Took me several days to figure that one out.