Engine shut down

[MichaelJT]

Got a intermittent problem with the engine shutting down. This has happened a couple of times, during sustained highway driving. Cruising along, everything fine, and the engine shuts down. Coast to the shoulder, let it sit for a couple minutes and it starts right back up. Continue driving with no problems.

Seems to me to be an electrical problem resulting from heat. After things cool for a few minutes, some connection is re-established and things are back to normal.

Anyone else have this problem or have a suggestion as to where to start instead of just replacing parts at random? No CEL is displayed so I can't find it that way.

I fixed a problem with my Suburban by just throwing parts at it until the issue was resolved but I don't want to go that route again unless I have to. I rationalized it by telling myself that everything I replaced should have been replaced anyway and I suppose I can do it again, but thought I'd give this a try first.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Mike.

[BK3]

Sounds as if you may have a crankshaft position sensor issue. A defective CPS can cause the issues you describe.

[SSEBonne4evr]

Tighten up on the ICM connector sockets then put it on and off a couple times.

My 90 SSE did this exact thing and that is what it was.
May also be the CPS.

[MKMike]

Tighten up on the ICM connector sockets then put it on and off a couple times.

My 90 SSE did this exact thing and that is what it was.
May also be the CPS.

Though if the ignition control module is failing, rather than just making a poor connection, this won't solve the problem.

The crankshaft position sensor and the ignition module fail often enough to be considered the 2 usual culprits.

Checking the grounds and battery cables for poor connections won't hurt, either, as poor connections have caused more than 1 Bonnie to shut off.
Often, the ground buses on the driver's and passenger's sides, beneath the carpet can corrode and wreak havoc.
Probably not your issue but it could be.

[coop8070]

My 94 lesabre did the same thing and it was the crank shaft position sensor. Schucks will let you use a scan tool for free to let you know For sure what the problem is.

[AJT2004]

Next time it happens disconnect the MAF sensor and see if the engine starts. No cost for this test!

[2000Silverbullet]

I have the same problem with a 94 SSEi right now.

Changed the CPS, PCM, ICM, MAF, Idle control motor, EGR, full tune.....no change.

It's with a mechanic now and he suspects wiring to the CPS or ICM.
Problem began after a frozen accessory belt idler froze and threw the belt three years ago!

I told the mechanic to only spend a couple more hours and if not fixed, it will be sold for scrap!!

[1oldman]

I have the same problem with a 94 SSEi right now.

Changed the CPS, PCM, ICM, MAF, Idle control motor, EGR, full tune.....no change.

It's with a mechanic now and he suspects wiring to the CPS or ICM.
Problem began after a frozen accessory belt idler froze and threw the belt three years ago!

I told the mechanic to only spend a couple more hours and if not fixed, it will be sold for scrap!!

If the wiring is like that on my ole '92, it's easy to get to. The wiring harness just sorta lays behind the pullys next to the heads, block and timing chain cover. I check mine and put new tape around the harness whenever I get the chance. - BC

[2000Silverbullet]

If only I were closer than the 1500 miles away that the car is located !
Can you imagine how this is pissing me off !!!

[1oldman]

If only I were closer than the 1500 miles away that the car is located !
Can you imagine how this is pissing me off !!!

Sounds like you need to take possession of the car. - BC

[2000Silverbullet]

I already have another 94 So I could use the parts but the shipping cost is excessive lol.

Practical life of cars made after 1990 has plummeted.