anybody have any suggestions on how to read a check engine light? it just came on the morning. the cranking batteries are not holding charge after sitting over night so that could be my problem but i used the boost to get her cranked
thought i'd ask on this thread. but can start a new one
Split out into its own topic since it isn't related to the slide issue
There are 2 switches inside the dash that can help you read the CEL by giving blink codes. This assumes you don't have VMSpc which will also give you error codes, PIDs, etc.
I will dig up the decoder info momentarily
secret? switches inside dash (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=37565.msg361576#msg361576)
Mystery Switches inside dash (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=41600.msg414868#msg414868)
If it took a long time to crank, that could be the cause, but the topics above contain info on where the switches are and how to read the blink codes that result.
I just went through this and my check engine was absolutely caused by the dead chassis batteries and slow start. Fresh chassis batteries and all is well again.
Yes, computers that work on 12 VDC get really finicky when asked to do the same work on 8-9 VDC.
It is like they are putting you in "TIME OUT".
As Brett says, they don't like low voltage and you can't believe how low the voltage goes with an extended start. That is one of the reasons cranking is limited to a certain number of seconds. Too long and the computer will "time out" and generate codes. Low CCA, battery voltage will also overheat the starter and shorten it's life.
One of the reasons I have about 3000 CCA with the three 31 series. I don't need anywhere near that much normally but...
Pierce