2001 SSEi runs like a raped ape but only when it's cold

[Archon]

I do not run premium, since GAS prices exploded, but now since prices have fallen back to reasonable prices, I will start using Premium. I know Pontiac requires premium fuel for the SSEi model.

I think that we just found your problem. If you are still running less than premium when scanned, you'll likely find massive amounts of KR which is pulling your timing. You will not get as good of performance, and will get fewer MPG, so you could be losing more in the long run. For the knock sensors to pick something up, the knock has already occurred, and can be slowly damaging your engine. If the sensor(s) become defective, you will be replacing the engine. It cost less than $4 more per tankful for premium gas.

[dpdan]

I'll try it, thanks.
Dan

[bonnevillain]

this should fix your problem Give it a while though, your PCM has 2 tables (one for high octane and one for low octane)

[00Beast]

this should fix your problem Give it a while though, your PCM has 2 tables (one for high octane and one for low octane)

Or you can disconnect your battery and that will reset the PCM, and it will go into learn stage again.

[bonnevillain]

yup. i was also pleasantly surprised that i didn't lose my radio presets or trip gauge, etc.

[00Beast]

I'll try it, thanks.
Dan

Please, don't try it, do it. The way I figure, In the long run, it's cheaper to run premium than it is to replace pistons, or even a whole motor, and it makes the car faster too.

[dpdan]

I'll try it, thanks.
Dan

Please, don't try it, do it. The way I figure, In the long run, it's cheaper to run premium than it is to replace pistons, or even a whole motor, and it makes the car faster too.

Filler up with Ethyl
She's getting a full tank today.
I do want to disconnect the battery to rest the PCM. I was actually thinking of that before it was mentioned.
Thanks guys!

Dan

[dpdan]

Well guys, I have only run a quarter of a tank of premium and it certainly
likes premium fuel better, but it still does not perform like it does when it's cold.

I know not to "get on it" when it's cold, but I do know what it's like cold, and it is a monster.
I did not disconnect the battery yet and I do need to give it some more time.

Dan

[00Beast]

yes, give it some time. If, in a few days it runs like crap, then it's time to start looking at it again.

[dpdan]

it isn't running crappy, it is just nowhere near as fast warmed up.

[BonneMe]

it isn't running crappy, it is just nowhere near as fast warmed up.

Pull the battery cable for 30 min and reset the PCM. It's probably still slowly creeping up with timing and getting used to the new gas. However a reset will put it back into learning mode, and will probably be better in the long run.

[dpdan]

It surprised me today, it had been running for about twenty five minutes (definately warmed up) and I was behind a hotshot in a Mustang and the light went green. I guess he knew I had an SSEi because he tried leaving me,,, as I was already halfway across this big intersection I floored it, it immediately started burning rubber through the second half of the intersection at which point he looked up in his rear view mirror.... surprised I might add.

Let's just say he didn't leave me
It's too cold to disconnect the battery.
It is starting to act like it should.


Dan

[bonnevillain]

too cold? your battery's under your back seat! XD

[dpdan]

too cold? your battery's under your back seat! XD

I know

[BillBoost37]

It will take a certain amount of mileage/time to relearn the high octance table. Another consideration is that since you were running low octane fuel and most likely getting your share of KR, the plugs may have damage from the predetonation.

My suggestion would be to pull the plugs and inspect/replace them. You may have even more power to harness if you have a couple bad plugs.

[dpdan]

I pulled one plug about two months ago and it was very clean,

Dan

[00Beast]

two months and now is a long time, especially if it is detonating. Also, too clean (bone white) of a plug means you are running way lean, and that can lead to an overall meltdown of the engine. Not Good. Please, pull a front plug, and inspect, and check your wires, and you might as well do a full tune-up.

[dpdan]

two months and now is a long time, especially if it is detonating. Also, too clean (bone white) of a plug means you are running way lean, and that can lead to an overall meltdown of the engine. Not Good. Please, pull a front plug, and inspect, and check your wires, and you might as well do a full tune-up.

okie doke Doc!
Dan

[BillBoost37]

One plug isn't enough. Many have seen detonation on only one or two cylinders, I know it's cold and still recommend pulling all six.