CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Vehicle Will Not Start

Dead battery

Check battery cells, alternator belt tension and

alternator output

Loose or corroded battery connections

Check all charging system connections

Ignition circuit or switch malfunction

Check and replace as necessary

Alternator Light Stays On With Engine Running

Loose or worn alternator drive belt

Check alternator drive tension and condition, See Belt Adjustment in TUNE-UP article in the TUNE-

UP section

Loose alternator wiring connections

Check all charging system connections

Short in alternator light wiring

See Indicator Warning Lights in STANDARD INSTRUMENTS in the ACCESSORIES &

EQUIPMENT section

Defective alternator stator or diodes

See Bench Tests in ALTERNATOR article

Defective regulator

See Regulator Check in ALTERNATOR article

Alternator Light Stays Off With Ignition Switch ON

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Blown fuse

See WIRING DIAGRAMS

Defective alternator

See Testing in ALTERNATOR article

Defective indicator light bulb or socket

See Indicator Warning Lights in STANDARD INSTRUMENTS in the ACCESSORIES &

EQUIPMENT section

Alternator Light Stays OFF With Ignition Switch ON

Short in alternator wiring

See On-Vehicle Tests in ALTERNATOR article

Defective rectifier bridge

See Bench Tests in ALTERNATOR article

Lights or Fuses Burn Out Frequently

Defective alternator wiring

See On-Vehicle Tests in ALTERNATOR article

Defective regulator

See Regulator Check in ALTERNATOR article

Defective battery

Check and replace as necessary

Ammeter Gauge Shows Discharge

Loose or worn drive belt

Check alternator drive belt tension and condition. See Belt Adjustment in TUNE-UP article in the

TUNE-UP section

Defective wiring

Check all wires and wire connections

Defective alternator or regulator

See Bench Tests and On-Vehicle Tests in

ALTERNATOR article

Defective ammeter, or improper ammeter wiring connection

See Testing in STANDARD INSTRUMENTS in the ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT section

Noisy Alternator

Loose drive pulley

Tighten drive pulley attaching nut

Loose mounting bolts

Tighten all alternator mounting bolts

Worn or dirty bearings

See Bearing Replacement ALTERNATOR article

Defective diodes or stator

See Bench Test in ALTERNATOR article

Battery Does Stay Charged

Loose or worn drive belt

Check alternator drive belt tension and condition. See Belt Adjustment in appropriate TUNE-UP

article in the TUNE-UP section

Loose or corroded battery connections

Check all charging system connections

Loose alternator connections

Check all charging system connections

Defective alternator or battery

See On-Vehicle Tests and Bench Tests in

ALTERNATOR article

Add-on electrical accessories exceeding alternator capacity

Install larger alternator

Battery Overcharged-Uses Too Much Water

Defective battery

Check alternator output and repair as necessary

Defective alternator

See On-Vehicle Test and Bench Tests in

ALTERNATOR article

Excessive alternator voltage

Check alternator output and repair as necessary

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Starter Fails to Operate

Dead battery or bad connections between starter and battery

Check battery charge and all wires and

connections to starter

Ignition switch faulty or misadjusted

Adjust or replace ignition switch

Open circuit between starter switch ignition terminal on starter relay

Check and repair wires and connections as

necessary

Starter relay or starter defective

See Testing in STARTER article

Open solenoid pull-in wire

Testing in STARTER article

Starter Does Not Operate and Headlights Dim

Weak battery or dead cell

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Loose or corroded battery connections

Check that battery connections are clean and tight

Internal ground in starter windings

See Testing in STARTER article

Grounded starter fields

See Testing in STARTERS

Armature rubbing on pole

See STARTER article shoes

Starter Turns but Engine Does Not Rotate

Starter clutch slipping

See STARTER article

Broken clutch housing

See STARTER article

Pinion shaft rusted or dry

See STARTER article

Engine basic timing incorrect

See Ignition Timing in TUNE-UP article

Broken teeth on engine flywheel

Replace flywheel and check for starter pinion gear

damage

Starter Will Not Crank Engine

Faulty overrunning clutch

See STARTER article

Broken clutch housing

See STARTER article

Broken flywheel teeth

Replace flywheel and check for starter pinion gear

damage

Armature shaft sheared or reduction gear teeth stripped

See STARTER article

Weak battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Faulty solenoid

See On-Vehicle Tests in STARTER article

Poor grounds

Check all ground connections for tight and clean

connections

Ignition switch faulty or misadjusted

Adjust or replace ignition switch as necessary

Starter Cranks Engine Slowly

Battery weak or defective

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Engine overheated

See ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM article

Engine oil too heavy

Check that proper viscosity oil is used

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Poor battery-to-starter connections

Check that all between battery and starter are

clean and tight

Current draw too low or too high

See Bench Tests in STARTER article

Bent armature, loose pole shoes screws or worn bearing

See STARTER article

Burned solenoid contacts

Replace solenoid

Faulty starter

Replace starter

Starter Engages Engine Only Momentarily

Engine timing too far advanced

See Ignition Timing in TUNE-UP article

Overrunning clutch not engaging properly

Replace overrunning clutch. See STARTER article

Broken starter clutch

See STARTER article

Broken teeth on engine flywheel

Replace flywheel and check starter pinion gear for

damage

Weak drive assembly thrust spring

See STARTER article

Weak hold-in coil

See Bench Tests in STARTER article

Starter Drive Will Not Engage

Defective point assembly

See Testing in STARTER article

Poor point assembly ground

See Testing in STARTER article

Defective pull-in coil

Replace starter solenoid

Starter Relay Does Not Close

Dead battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Faulty wiring

Check all wiring and connections leading to relay

Neutral safety switch faulty

Replace neutral safety switch

Starter relay faulty

Replace starter relay

Starter Drive Will Not Disengage

Starter motor loose on mountings

Tighten starter attach bolts

Worn drive end bushing

See STARTER article

Damaged engine flywheel teeth

Replace flywheel and starter pinion gear for

damage

Drive yolk return spring broken or missing

Replace return spring

Faulty ignition switch

Replace ignition switch

Insufficient clearance between winding leads to solenoid terminal and main contact in solenoid

Replace starter solenoid

Starter clutch not disengaging

Replace starter clutch

Ignition starter switch

Replace ignition switch contacts sticking

Starter Relay Operates but Solenoid Does Not

Faulty solenoid switch, switch connections or relay

Check all wiring between relay and solenoid or replace relay or solenoid as necessary

Broken lead or loose soldered connections

Repair wire or wire connections as necessary

Solenoid Plunger Vibrates When Switch is Engaged

Weak battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Solenoid contacts corroded

Clean contacts or replace solenoid

Faulty wiring

Check all wiring leading to solenoid

Broken connections inside switch cover

Repair connections or replace solenoid

Open hold-in wire

solenoid

Low Current Draw

Worn brushes or weak brush springs

Replace brushes or brush springs as necessary

High Pitched Whine During Cranking Before Engine Fires but Engine Fires and Cranks Normally

Distance too great between starter pinion and flywheel

Align starter or check that correct starter and

flywheel are being used

High Pitched Whine After Engine Fires With Key released. Engine Fires and Cranks Normally

Distance too small between starter pinion and flywheel

Flywheel runout contributes to the intermittent

nature

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Compressor Not Working

Compressor clutch circuit open.

.....

Compressor clutch coil inoperative.

.....

Poor clutch ground connection.

.....

Fan belts loose.

.....

Thermostatic switch inoperative.

.....

Thermostatic switch not adjusted.

.....

Ambient temperature switch open.

.....

Superheat fuse blown.

Excessive Noise or Vibration

Missing or loose mounting bolts.

.....

Bad idler pulley bearings.

.....

Fan belts not tightened correctly.

.....

Compressor clutch contacting body.

.....

Excessive system pressure.

.....

Compressor oil level low.

.....

Damaged clutch bearings.

.....

Damaged reed valves.

.....

Damaged compressor.

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Insufficient or No Cooling; Compressor Working

Expansion valve inoperative.

.....

Heater control valve stuck open.

.....

Low system pressure.

.....

Blocked condenser fins.

.....

Blocked evaporator fins.

.....

Vacuum system leak.

.....

Vacuum motors inoperative.

.....

Control cables improperly adjusted.

.....

Restricted air inlet.

.....

Mode doors binding.

.....

Blower motor inoperative.

.....

Temperature above system capacity.

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Insufficient, Erratic, or No Heat

Low Coolant Level

.....

Incorrect thermostat.

.....

Restricted coolant flow through core.

.....

Heater hoses plugged.

.....

Misadjusted control cable.

.....

Sticking heater control valve.

.....

Vacuum hose leaking.

.....

Vacuum hose blocked.

.....

Vacuum motors inoperative.

.....

Blocked air inlet.

.....

Inoperative heater blower motor.

.....

Oil residue on heater core fins.

.....

Dirt on heater core fins.

Too Much Heat

Improperly adjusted cables.

.....

Sticking heater control valve.

.....

No vacuum to heater control valve.

.....

Temperature door stuck open.

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Air Flow Changes During Acceleration

Vacuum system leak.

.....

Bad check valve or reservoir.

Air From Defroster At All Times

Vacuum system leak.

.....

Improperly adjusted control cables.

.....

Inoperative vacuum motor.

Blower Does Not Operate Correctly

Blown fuse.

.....

Blower motor windings open.

.....

Resistors burned out.

.....

Motor ground connection loose.

.....

Wiring harness connections loose.

.....

Blower motor switch inoperative.

.....

Blower relay inoperative.

.....

Fan binding or foreign object in housing.

.....

Fan blades broken or bent.

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Brakes Pull Left or Right

Incorrect tire pressure

Inflate tires to proper pressure

Front end out of alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Mismatched tires

Check tires sizes

Restricted brake lines or hoses

Check hose routing

Loose or malfunctioning caliper

See DISC BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Bent shoe or oily linings

See DRUM BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Malfunctioning rear brakes

See DRUM, DISC BRAKES or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Loose suspension parts

See SUSPENSION

Noises Without Brakes Applied

Front linings worn out

Replace linings

Dust or oil on drums or rotors

See DRUM, DISC BRAKES or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Noises With Brakes Applied

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Insulator on outboard shoe damaged

See DISC BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Incorrect pads or linings

Replace pads or linings

Brake Rough, Chatters or Pulsates

Excessive lateral runout

Check rotor runout

Parallelism not to specifications

Reface or replace rotor

Wheel bearings not adjusted

See SUSPENSION

Rear drums out-of-round

Reface or replace drums

Disc pad reversed, steel against rotor

Remove and reinstall pad

Excessive Pedal Effort

Malfunctioning power unit

See POWER BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Partial system failure

Check fluid and pipes

Worn disc pad or lining

Replace pad or lining

Caliper piston stuck or sluggish

See DISC BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Master cylinder piston stuck

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Brake fade due to incorrect pads for linings

Replace pads or linings

Linings or pads glazed

Replace pads or linings

Worn drums

Reface or replace drums

Excessive Pedal Travel

Partial brake system failure

Check fluid and pipes

Insufficient fluid in master cylinder

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Air trapped in system

See BRAKE BLEEDING or BRAKE SYSTEM

Rear brakes not adjusted

See Adjustments in DRUM BRAKES or

BRAKE SYSTEM

Bent shoe or lining

See DRUM BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Plugged master cylinder cap

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Improper brake fluid

Replace brake fluid

Pedal Travel Decreasing

Compensating port plugged

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Swollen cup in master cylinder

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Master cylinder piston not returning

See MASTER CYLINDERS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Weak shoe retracting springs

See DRUM BRAKES BRAKE SYSTEM

Wheel cylinder piston sticking

See DRUM BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Dragging Brakes

Master cylinder pistons not returning

See MASTER CYLINDERS BRAKE SYSTEM

Restricted brake lines or hoses

Check line routing

Incorrect parking brake adjustment

See DRUM BRAKES BRAKE SYSTEM

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Parking Brake cables frozen

See DRUM BRAKES BRAKE SYSTEM

Incorrect installation of inboard disc pad

Remove and replace correctly

Power booster output rod too long

See POWER BRAKE UNITS BRAKE SYSTEM

Brake pedal not returning freely

See DISC, DRUM BRAKES BRAKE SYSTEM

Brakes Grab or Uneven Braking Action

Malfunction of combination valve

See CONTROL VALVE or BRAKE SYSTEM

Malfunction of power brake unit

See POWER BRAKE UNITS or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Binding brake pedal

See DISC, DRUM BRAKES or BRAKE

SYSTEM

Pulsation or Roughness

Uneven pad wear caused by caliper

See DISC BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Uneven rotor wear

See DISC BRAKES or BRAKE SYSTEM

Drums out-of-round

Reface or replace drums

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Overheating

Coolant Leak

Fill/Pressure Test System

A/C Condenser Fins Clogged

Remove/Clean Condenser

Radiator Fins Clogged

Remove/Clean Radiator

Thermostat Stuck Closed

Replace Thermostat

Clogged Cooling System Passages

Clean/Flush Cooling System

Water Pump Malfunction

Replace Water Pump

Fan Clutch Malfunction

Replace Fan Clutch

Retarded Ignition Timing

Reset Ignition Timing

Cooling Fan Malfunction

Test Cooling Fan/Circuit

Cooling Fan Motor Malfunction

Test Fan Motor

Cooling Fan Relay Malfunction

Test Fan Relay

Faulty Radiator Cap

Replace Radiator Cap

Broken/Slipping Fan Belt

Replace Fan Belt

Restricted Exhaust

Repair Exhaust System

Corrosion

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Impurities In Coolant

Clean/Flush System

Coolant Leakage

Damaged hose

Replace Hose

Leaky Water Pump

Replace Water Pump

Damaged Radiator Seam

Replace/Repair Radiator

Leaky Thermostat Cover

Replace Thermostat Cover

Cylinder Head Problem

Check Head/Head Gasket

Leaky Freeze Plugs

Replace Freeze Plugs

Recovery System Inoperative

Loose and/or Defective Radiator Cap

Replace Radiator Cap

Overflow Tube Clogged and/or Leaking

Repair Tube

Recovery Bottle Vent Restricted

Clean Vent

No Heater Core Flow

Collapsed Heater Hose

Replace Heater Hose

Plugged Heater Core

Clean/Replace Heater Core

Faulty Heater Valve

Replace Heater Valve

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Lopes At Idle

Intake manifold-to-head leaks

Replace manifold gasket, See ENGINES

Blown head gasket

Replace head gasket, See ENGINES

Worn timing gears, chain or sprocket

Replace gears, chain or sprocket

Worn camshaft lobes

Replace camshaft, See ENGINES

Overheated engine

Check cooling system, See COOLING

Blocked crankcase vent valve

Remove restriction

Leaking EGR valve

Repair leak and/or replace valve

Faulty fuel pump

Replace fuel pump

Engine Has Low Power

Leaking fuel pump

Repair leak and/or replace fuel pump

Excessive piston-to-bore clearance

Install larger pistons, See ENGINES

Sticking valves or weak valve springs

Check valve train components, See ENGINES

Incorrect valve timing

Reset valve timing, See ENGINES

Worn camshaft lobes

Replace camshaft, See ENGINES

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Blown head gasket

Replace head gasket. See ENGINES.

Clutch slipping

Adjust pedal and/or replace components, See

ENGINES

Engine overheating

Check cooling system, See COOLING

Auto. Trans. pressure regulator valve faulty

Replace pressure regulator valve

Auto. Trans. fluid level too low

Add fluid as necessary

Improper vacuum diverter valve operation

Replace vacuum diverter valve

Vacuum leaks

Inspect vacuum system and repair as required

Leaking piston rings

Replace piston rings, See ENGINES

Faulty High Speed Operation

Low fuel pump volume

Replace fuel pump

Leaking valves or worn

Replace valves and/or springs, See ENGINES

Incorrect valve timing

Reset valve timing,See ENGINES

Intake manifold restricted

Remove restriction

Worn distributor shaft

Replace distributor

Faulty Acceleration

Improper fuel pump stroke

Remove pump and reset pump stroke

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing, See TUNE-UP

Leaking valves

Replace valves, See ENGINES

Worn fuel pump diaphragm or piston

Replace diaphragm or piston

Intake Backfire

Improper ignition timing

Reset ignition timing, See TUNE-UP

Faulty accelerator pump discharge

Replace accelerator pump

Improper choke operation

Check choke and adjust as required

Defective EGR valve

Replace EGR valve

Fuel mixture too lean

Reset air/fuel mixture, See TUNE-UP

Choke valve initial clearance too large

Reset choke valve initial clearance

Exhaust Backfire

Vacuum leak

Inspect and repair vacuum system

Faulty vacuum diverter valve

Replace vacuum diverter valve

Faulty choke operation

Check choke and adjust as required

Exhaust system leak

repair exhaust system leak

Engine Detonation

Ignition timing too far advanced

Reset ignition timing, See TUNE-UP

Faulty ignition system

Check ignition timing, See TUNE-UP

Spark plugs loose or faulty

Retighten or replace plugs

Fuel delivery system clogged

Inspect lines, pump and filter for clog

EGR valve inoperative

Replace EGR valve

PCV system inoperative

Inspect and/or replace hoses or valve

Vacuum leaks

Check vacuum system and repair leaks

Excessive combustion chamber deposits

Remove built-up deposits

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Leaking, sticking or broken valves

Inspect and/or replace valves

External Oil Leakage

Fuel pump improperly seated or worn gasket

Remove pump, replace gasket and seat properly

Oil pan gasket broken or pan bent

Straighten pan and replace gasket

Timing chain cover gasket broken

Replace timing chain cover gasket

Rear main oil seal worn

Replace rear main oil seal

Oil pan drain plug not seated properly

Remove and reinstall drain plug

Camshaft bearing drain hole blocked

Remove restriction

Oil pressure sending switch leaking

Remove and reinstall sending switch

Excessive Oil Consumption

Worn valve stems or guides

Replace stems or guides, See ENGINES

Valve "O" ring seals damaged

Replace "O" ring seals, See ENGINES

Plugged oil drain back holes

Remove restrictions

Improper PCV valve operation

Replace PCV valve

Engine oil level too high

Remove excess oil

Engine oil too thin

Replace thicker oil

Valve stem oil deflectors damaged

Replace oil deflectors

Incorrect piston rings

Replace piston rings, See ENGINES

Piston ring gaps not staggered

Reinstall piston rings, See ENGINES

Insufficient piston ring tension

Replace rings, See ENGINES

Piston ring grooves or oil return

slots clogged Replace piston rings, See

ENGINES

Piston rings sticking in grooves

Replace piston rings, See ENGINES

Piston ring grooves excessively worn

Replace piston and rings, See ENGINES

Compression rings installed upside down

Replace compression rings correctly, See

ENGINES

Worn or scored cylinder walls

Rebore cylinders or replace block

Mismatched oil ring expander and rail

Replace oil ring expander and rail, See

ENGINES

Intake gasket dowels too long

Replace intake gasket dowels

Excessive main or connecting rod bearing clearance

Replace main or connecting rod bearings, See

ENGINES

No Oil Pressure

Low oil level

Add oil to proper level

Oil pressure sender or gauge broken

Replace sender or gauge

Oil pump malfunction

Remove and overhaul oil pump, See ENGINES

Oil pressure relief valve sticking

Remove and reinstall valve

Oil pump passages blocked

Overhaul oil pump, See ENGINES

Oil pickup screen or tube blocked

Remove restriction

Loose oil inlet tube

Tighten oil inlet tube

Loose camshaft bearings

Replace camshaft bearings, See ENGINES

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Internal leakage at oil passages

Replace block or cylinder head

Low Oil Pressure

Low engine oil level

Add oil to proper level

Engine oil too thin

Remove and replace with thicker oil

Excessive oil pump clearance

Reduce oil pump clearance, See ENGINES

Oil pickup tube or screen blocked

Remove restrictions

Main, rod or cam bearing clearance excessive

Replace bearing to reduce clearance, See

ENGINES

High Oil Pressure

Improper grade of oil

Replace with proper oil

Oil pressure relief valve stuck closed

Eliminate binding

Oil pressure sender or gauge faulty

Replace sender or gauge

Noisy Main Bearings

Inadequate oil supply

Check oil delivery to main bearings

Excessive main bearing clearance

Replace main bearings, See ENGINES

Excessive crankshaft end play

Replace crankshaft, See ENGINES

Loose flywheel or torque converter

Tighten attaching bolts

Loose or damaged vibration damper

Tighten or replace vibration damper

Crankshaft journals out-of-round

Re-grind crankshaft journals

Excessive belt tension

Loosen belt tension

Noisy Connecting Rods

Excessive bearing clearance or missing bearing

Replace bearing, See ENGINES

Crankshaft rod journal out-of-round

Re-grind crankshaft journal

Misaligned connecting rod or cap

Remove rod or cap and realign

Incorrectly tightened rod bolts

Remove and re-tighten rod bolts

Noisy Pistons and Rings

Excessive piston-to-bore clearance

Install larger pistons, See ENGINES

Bore tapered or out-of-round

Rebore block

Piston ring broken

Replace piston rings, See ENGINES

Piston pin loose or seized

Replace piston pin, See ENGINES

Connecting rods misaligned

Realign connecting rods

Ring side clearance too loose or tight

Replace with larger or smaller rings

Carbon build-up on piston

Remove carbon

Noisy Valve Train

Worn or bent push rods

Replace push rods, See ENGINES

Worn rocker arms or bridged pivots

Replace push rods, See ENGINES

Dirt or chips in valve lifters

Remove lifters and remove dirt/chips

Excessive valve lifter leak-down

Replace valve lifters, See ENGINES

Valve lifter face worn

Replace valve lifters, See ENGINES

Broken or cocked valve springs

Replace or reposition springs

Too much valve stem-to-guide clearance

Replace valve guides, See ENGINES

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Valve bent

Replace valve, See ENGINES

Loose rocker arms

Retighten rocker arms, See ENGINES

Excessive valve seat run-out

Reface valve seats, See ENGINES

Missing valve lock

Install new valve lock

Excessively worn camshaft lobes

Replace camshaft, See ENGINES

Plugged valve lifter oil holes

Eliminate restriction or replace lifter

Faulty valve lifter check ball

Replace lifter check ball, See ENGINES

Rocker arm nut installed upside down

Remove and reinstall correctly

Valve lifter incorrect for engine

Remove and replace valve lifters

Faulty push rod seat or lifter plunger

Replace plunger or push rod

Noisy Valves

Improper valve lash

Re-adjust valve lash, See ENGINES

Worn or dirty valve lifters

Clean and/or replace lifters

Worn valve guides

Replace valve guides, See ENGINES

Excessive valve seat or face run-out

Reface seats or valve face

Worn camshaft lobes

Replace camshaft, See ENGINES

Loose rocker arm studs

Re-tighten rocker arm studs, See ENGINES

Bent push rods

Replace push rods, See ENGINES

Broken valve springs

Replace valve springs, See ENGINES

Burned,Sticking or Broken Valves

Weak valve springs or warped valves

Replace valves and/or springs, See ENGINES

Improper lifter clearance

Re-adjust clearance or replace lifters

Worn guides or improper guide clearance

Replace valve guides, See ENGINES

Out-of-round valve seats or improper seat width

Re-grind valve seats

Gum deposits on valve stems, seats or guide

Remove deposits

Improper spark timing

Re-adjust spark timing

Broken Pistons/Rings

Undersize pistons

Replace with larger pistons, See ENGINES

Wrong piston rings

Replace with correct rings, See ENGINES

Out-of-round cylinder bore

Re-bore cylinder bore

Improper connecting rod alignment

Remove and realign connecting rods

Excessively worn ring grooves

Replace pistons, See ENGINES

Improperly assembled piston pins

Re-assemble pin-to-piston, See ENGINES

Insufficient ring gap clearance

Install new rings, See ENGINES

Engine overheating

Check cooling system

Incorrect ignition timing

Re-adjust ignition timing, See TUNE-UP

Excessive Exhaust Noise

Leaks at manifold to head, or to pipe

Replace manifold or pipe gasket

Exhaust manifold cracked or broken

Replace exhaust manifold, See ENGINES

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Won't Start

Choke not closing

Check choke operation, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Choke linkage bent

Check linkage, see FUEL SYSTEM

Engine Starts, Then Dies

Choke vacuum kick setting too wide

Check setting and adjust see, FUEL SYSTEMS

Fast idle RPM too low

Reset RPM to specification, see TUNE-UP

Fast idle cam index incorrect

Reset fast idle cam index, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Vacuum leak

Inspect vacuum system for leaks

Low fuel pump outlet

Repair or replace pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Low carburetor fuel level

Check float setting see FUEL SYSTEM

Engine Quits Under Load

Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect

Reset vacuum kick setting,see FUEL SYSTEMS

Fast idle cam index incorrect

Reset fast idle cam index, see FUEL SYSTEM

Incorrect hot fast idle speed RPM

Reset fast idle RPM, see TUNE-UP

Engine Starts, Runs Up, Then Idles, Slowly With Black Smoke

Choke vacuum kick set too narrow

Reset vacuum kick, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Fast idle cam index incorrect

Reset fast idle cam index, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Hot fast idle RPM too low

Reset fast idle RPM, see TUNE-UP

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Won't Start

Engine flooded

Allow fuel to evaporate

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Stalls in Gear

Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect

Reset choke vacuum kick, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Fast idle RPM incorrect

Reset fast idle RPM, see TUNE-UP

Fast idle cam index incorrect

Reset fast idle cam see FUEL SYSTEMS

Acceleration Sag or Stall

Defective choke control switch

Replace choke control switch

Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect

Reset choke vacuum kick see, FUEL SYSTEMS

Float level incorrect (too low)

Adjust float level, FUEL SYSTEMS

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Accelerator pump defective

Repair or replace pump see FUEL SYSTEMS

Secondary throttles not closed

Inspect lockout adjustment, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Sag or Stall After Warmup

Defective choke control switch

Replace choke control switch, see FUEL

SYSTEMS

Defective accelerator pump

Replace pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Float level incorrect (too low)

Adjust float level, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Backfiring & Black Smoke

Plugged heat crossover system

Remove restriction

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Hesitation With Small Amount of Gas Pedal Movement

Vacuum leak

Inspect vacuum lines

Accelerator pump weak or inoperable

Replace pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Float level setting too low

Reset float level, see,FUEL SYSTEMS

Metering rods sticking or binding

Inspect and/or replace rods, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Carburetor idle or transfer system plugged

Inspect system and remove restriction

Frozen or binding heated air inlet

Inspect heated air door for binding

Hesitation With Heavy Gas Pedal Movement

Defective accelerator pump

Replace pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Metering rod carrier sticking or binding

Remove restriction

Large vacuum leak

Inspect vacuum system and repair leak

Float level setting too low

Reset float level, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Defective fuel pump, lines or filter

Inspect pump, lines and filter

Air door setting incorrect

Adjust air door setting, see FUEL

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Won't Crank

Bad battery connections or dead batteries

Check connections and/or replace batteries

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Bad starter connections or bad starter

Check connections and/or replace starter

Engine Cranks Slowly, Won't Start

Bad battery connections or dead batteries

Check connections and/or replace batteries

Engine oil too heavy

Replace engine oil

Engine Cranks Normally, But Will Not Start

Glow plugs not functioning

Check glow plug system, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Glow plug control not functioning

Check controller, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Fuel not injected into cylinders

Check fuel injectors, see FUEL SYSTEMS

No fuel to injection pump

Check fuel delivery system

Fuel filter blocked

Replace fuel filter

Fuel tank filter blocked

Replace fuel tank filter

Fuel pump not operating

Check pump operation and/or replace pump

Fuel return system blocked

Inspect system and remove restriction

No voltage to fuel solenoid

Check solenoid and connections

Incorrect or contaminated fuel

Replace fuel

Incorrect injection pump timing

Re-adjust pump timing, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Low compression

Check valves, pistons, rings, see ENGINES

Injection pump malfunction

Inspect and/or replace injection pump

Engine Starts, Won't Idle

Incorrect slow idle adjustment

Reset idle adjustment, see TUNE-UP

Fast idle solenoid malfunctioning

Check solenoid and connections

Fuel return system blocked

Check system and remove restrictions

Glow plugs go off too soon

See glow plug diagnosis in FUEL SYSTEMS

Injection pump timing incorrect

Reset pump timing, see FUEL SYSTEMS

No fuel to injection pump

Check fuel delivery system

Incorrect or contaminated fuel

Replace fuel

Low compression

Check valves, piston, rings, see ENGINES

Injection pump malfunction

Replace injection pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Fuel solenoid closes in RUN position

Check solenoid and connections

Engines Starts/Idles Rough W/out Smoke or Noise

Incorrect slow idle adjustment

Reset slow idle, see TUNE-UP

Injection line fuel leaks

Check lines and connections

Fuel return system blocked

Check lines and connections

Air in fuel system

Bleed air from system

Incorrect or contaminated fuel

Replace fuel

Injector nozzle malfunction

Check nozzles, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Engines Starts and Idles Rough W/out Smoke or Noise, But Clears After Warm-Up

Injection pump timing incorrect

Reset pump timing, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Engine not fully broken in

Put more miles on engine

Air in system

Bleed air from system

Injector nozzle malfunction

Check nozzles, see FUEL SYSTEMS

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Idles Correctly, Misfires Above Idle

Blocked fuel filter

Replace fuel filter

Injection pump timing incorrect

Reset pump timing, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Incorrect or contaminated fuel

Replace fuel

Engine Won't Return To Idle

Fast idle adjustment incorrect

Reset fast idle, see TUNE-UP

Internal injection pump malfunction

Replace injection pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

External linkage binding

Check linkage and remove binding

Fuel Leaks On Ground

Loose or broken fuel line

Check lines and connections

Internal injection pump seal leak

Replace injection pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Cylinder Knocking Noise

Injector nozzles sticking open

Test injectors, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Very low nozzle opening pressure

Test injectors and/or replace

Loss of Engine Power

Restricted air intake

Remove restriction

EGR valve malfunction

Replace EGR valve

Blocked or damaged exhaust system

Remove restriction and/or replace components

Blocked fuel tank filter

Replace filter

Restricted fuel filter

Remove restriction and/or replace filter

Block vent in gas cap

Remove restriction and/or replace cap

Tank-to-injection pump fuel supply blocked

Check fuel lines and connections

Blocked fuel return system

Remove restriction

Incorrect or contaminated fuel

Replace fuel

Blocked injector nozzles

Check nozzle for blockage, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Low compression

Check valves, rings, pistons, see ENGINES

Loud Engine Noise With Black Smoke

Basic timing incorrect

Reset timing, see FUEL SYSTEMS

EGR valve malfunction

Replace EGR valve

Internal injection pump malfunction

Replace injection pump, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Incorrect injector pump housing pressure

Check pressure, see FUEL SYSTEMS

Engine Overheating

Cooling system leaks

Check cooling system and repair leaks

Belt slipping or damaged

Check tension and/or replace belt

Thermostat stuck closed

Remove and replace thermostat, see ENGINE

COOLING

Head gasket leaking

Replace head gasket

Oil Light on at Idle

Low oil pump pressure

Check oil pump operation, see ENGINES

Oil cooler or line restricted

Remove restriction and/or replace cooler

Engine Won't Shut Off

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Injector pump fuel solenoid does not return fuel valve to OFF position

Remove and check solenoid and replace if needed

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Excessive Noise

Loose pump-to-drive assembly screws

Tighten screws

Loose tube on pump assembly

Tighten tube

Valves not functioning properly

Replace valves

Oil Leakage

Loose end plug

Tighten end plug

Bad seal crimp

Remove and re-crimp seal

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Won't Start (Cranks Normally)

Cold start valve inoperative

Test valve and circuit

Poor connection;vacuum or wiring

Check vacuum and electrical connections

Contaminated fuel

Test fuel for water or alcohol

Defective fuel pump relay or circuit

Test relay and wiring

Battery too low

Charge and test battery

Low fuel pressure

Test pressure regulator and fuel pump, check for

restricted lines and filters

No distributor reference pulses

Repair ignition system as necessary

Open coolant temperature sensor circuit

Test sensor and wiring

Shorted W.O.T. switch in T.P.S.

Disconnect W.O.T. switch, engine should start

Defective ECM

Replace ECM

Fuel tank residual pressure valve leaks

Test for fuel pressure drop after shut down

Hard Starting

Disconnected hot air tube to air cleaner

Reconnect tube and test control valve

Defective Idle Air Control (IAC) valve

Test valve operation and circuit

Shorted, open or misadjusted T.P.S.

Test and adjust or replace T.P.S.

EGR valve open

Test EGR valve and control circuit

Poor Oxygen sensor signal

Test for shorted or circuit

Incorrect mixture from PCV system

Test PCV for flow, check sealing of oil filter cap

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Poor High Speed Operation

Low fuel pump volume

Faulty pump or restricted fuel lines or filters

Poor MAP sensor signal

Test MAP sensor, vacuum hose and wiring

Poor Oxygen sensor signal

Test for shorted or open sensor or circuit

Open coolant temperature sensor circuit

Test sensor and wiring

Faulty ignition operation

Check wires for cracks or poor con- nections, test secondary voltage with oscilloscope

Contaminated fuel

Test fuel for water or alcohol

Intermittent ECM ground

Test ECM ground connection for resistance

Restricted air cleaner

Replace air cleaner

Restricted exhaust system

Test for exhaust manifold back pressure

Poor MAF sensor signal

Check leakage between sensor and manifold

Poor VSS signal

If tester for ALCL hook-up is available check that VSS reading matches speedometer

Ping or Knock on Acceleration

Poor Knock sensor signal

Test for shorted or open sensor or circuit

Poor Baro sensor signal

Test for shorted or open sensor or circuit

Improper ignition timing

See VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL LABEL

(where applicable)

Check for engine overheating problems

Low coolant, loose belts or electric cooling fan

inoperative

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Starter Fails to Operate

Dead battery or bad connections between starter and battery

Check battery charge and all wires and

connections to starter

Ignition switch faulty or misadjusted

Adjust or replace ignition switch

Open circuit between starter switch ignition terminal on starter relay

Check and repair wires and connections as

necessary

Starter relay or starter defective

See Testing in STARTER article

Open solenoid pull-in wire

See Testing in STARTER article

Starter Does Not Operate and Headlights Dim

Weak battery or dead cell

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Loose or corroded battery connections

Check that battery connections are clean and

tight

Internal ground in starter windings

See Testing in STARTER article

Grounded starter fields

See Testing in STARTERS

Armature rubbing on pole shoes

See STARTER article

Starter Turns but Engine Does Not Rotate

Starter clutch slipping

See STARTER article

Broken clutch housing

See STARTER article

Pinion shaft rusted or dry

See STARTER article

Engine basic timing incorrect

See Ignition Timing in TUNE-UP article

Broken teeth on engine flywheel

Replace flywheel and check for starter pinion

gear damage

Starter Will Not Crank Engine

Faulty overrunning clutch

See STARTER article

Broken clutch housing

See STARTER article

Broken flywheel teeth

Replace flywheel and check for starter pinion

gear damage

Armature shaft sheared or reduction gear teeth stripped

See STARTER article

Weak battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Faulty solenoid

See On-Vehicle Tests in STARTER article

Poor grounds

Check all ground connections for tight and

clean connections

Ignition switch faulty or misadjusted

Adjust or replace ignition switch as necessary

Starter Cranks Engine Slowly

Battery weak or defective

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Engine overheated

See ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM article

Engine oil too heavy

Check that proper viscosity oil is used

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Poor battery-to-starter connections

Check that all between battery and starter are

clean and tight

Current draw too low or too high

See Bench Tests in STARTER article

Bent armature, loose pole shoes screws or worn bearings

See STARTER article

Burned solenoid contacts

Replace solenoid

Faulty starter

Replace starter

Starter Engages Engine Only Momentarily

Engine timing too far advanced

See Ignition Timing in TUNE-UP article

Overrunning clutch not engaging properly

Replace overrunning clutch. See STARTER

article

Broken starter clutch

See STARTER article

Broken teeth on engine flywheel

Replace flywheel and check starter pinion gear

for damage

Weak drive assembly thrust spring

See STARTER article

Weak hold-in coil

See Bench Tests in STARTER article

Starter Drive Will Not Engage

Defective point assembly

See Testing in STARTER article

Poor point assembly ground

See Testing in STARTER article

Defective pull-in coil

Replace starter solenoid

Starter Relay Does Not Close

Dead battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Faulty wiring

Check all wiring and connections leading to

relay

Neutral safety switch faulty

Replace neutral safety switch

Starter relay faulty

Replace starter relay

Starter Drive Will Not Disengage

Starter motor loose on mountings

Tighten starter attach bolts

Worn drive end bushing

See STARTER article

Damaged engine flywheel teeth

Replace flywheel and starter pinion gear for

damage

Drive yolk return spring broken or missing

Replace return spring

Faulty ignition switch

Replace ignition switch

Insufficient clearance between winding leads to solenoid terminal and main contact in solenoid

Replace starter solenoid

Starter clutch not disengaging

Replace starter clutch

Ignition starter switch contacts sticking

Replace ignition switch

Starter Relay Operates but Solenoid Does Not

Faulty solenoid switch, switch connections or relay

Check all wiring between relay and solenoid or replace relay or solenoid as necessary

Broken lead or loose soldered connections

Repair wire or wire connections as necessary

Solenoid Plunger Vibrates When Switch is Engaged

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Weak battery

Charge or replace battery as necessary

Solenoid contacts corroded

Clean contacts or replace solenoid

Faulty wiring

Check all wiring leading to solenoid

Broken connections inside switch cover

Repair connections or replace solenoid

Open hold-in wire

Replace solenoid

Low Current Draw

Worn brushes or weak

Replace brushes or brush springs as necessary

High Pitched Whine During Cranking Before Engine Fires but Engine Fires and Cranks Normally

Distance too great between starter pinion and flywheel

Align starter or check that correct starter and

flywheel are being used

High Pitched Whine After Engine Fires With Key released. Engine Fires and Cranks Normally

Distance too small between starter pinion and flywheel

Flywheel runout contributes to the intermittent

nature

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Normal Spark Plug Condition

Light Tan or Gray deposits

No Action

Electrode not burned or fouled

No Action

Gap tolerance not changed

No Action

Cold Fouling or Carbon Deposits

Overrich air/fuel mixture

Adjust air/fuel mixture, see ENGINE PERFORMANCE section

Faulty choke

Replace choke assembly, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE section

Clogged air filter

Clean and/or replace air filter

Incorrect idle speed or dirty carburetor

Reset idle speed and/ or clean carburetor

Faulty ignition wires

Replace ignition wiring

Prolonged operation at idle

Shut engine off during long idle

Sticking valves or worn valve guide seals

Check valve train

Wet Fouling or Oil Deposits

Worn rings and pistons

Install new rings and pistons

Excessive cylinder wear

Rebore or replace block

Excessive valve guide clearance

Worn or loose bearing

Gap Bridged

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Deposits in combustion chamber becoming fused to electrode

Clean combustion chamber of deposits

Blistered Electrode

Engine overheating

Check cooling system

Wrong type of fuel

Replace with correct fuel

Loose spark plugs

Retighten spark plugs

Over-advanced ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Pre-Ignition or Melted Electrodes

Incorrect type of fuel

Replace with correct fuel

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Burned valves

Replace valves

Engine Overheating

Check cooling system

Wrong type of spark plug, too hot

Replace with correct spark plug, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Chipped Insulators

Severe detonation

Check for over-advanced timing or combustion

Improper gapping procedure

Re-gap spark plugs

Rust Colored Deposits

Additives in unleaded fuel

Try different fuel brand

Water In Combustion Chamber

Blown head gasket or cracked head

Repair or replace head or head gasket

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Engine Won't Start

Open circuit between distributor and bulkhead connector

Repair circuit

Open circuit between bulkhead connector and ignition switch

Repair circuit

Open circuit between ignition switch and starter solenoid

Repair circuit

Engine Runs Rough

Fuel lines leaking or clogged

Tighten fitting, remove restriction

Initial timing incorrect

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Centrifugal advance malfunction

Repair distributor advance

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Defective spark plugs or wiring

Replace plugs or plug wiring

Component Failure

Spark arc-over on cap, rotor or coil

Replace cap, rotor or or coil

Defective pick-up coil

Replace pick-up coil

Defective ignition coil

Replace ignition coil

Defective vacuum unit

Replace vacuum unit

Defective control module

Replace control module

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Firing Voltage Lines are the Same, but Abnormally High

Retarded ignition timing

Reset ignition timing, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE section

Fuel mixture too lean

Readjust carburetor, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

High resistance in coil wire

Replace coil wire

Corrosion in coil tower terminal

Clean and/or replace coil

Corrosion in distributor coil terminal

Clean and/or replace distributor cap

Firing Voltage Lines are the Same but Abnormally Low

Fuel mixture too rich

Readjust carburetor, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Breaks in coil wire causing arcing

Replace coil wire

Cracked coil tower causing arcing

Replace coil

Low coil output

Replace coil

Low engine compression

Determine cause and repair

One or More, But Not All Firing Voltage Lines are Higher Than Others

Carburetor idle mixture not balanced

Readjust carburetor, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

EGR valve stuck open

Clean and/or replace valve

High resistance in spark plug wires

Replace spark plug wires

Cracked or broken spark plug insulator

Replace spark plugs

Intake vacuum leak

Repair leak

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Corroded spark plug terminals

Replace spark plugs

One or More, But Not All Firing Voltage Lines Are Lower Than Others

Curb idle mixture not balanced

Readjust carburetor, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Breaks in plug wires

Replace plug wires causing arcing

Cracked coil tower causing arcing

Replace coil

Low compression

Determine cause and repair

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Corroded spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Cylinders Not Firing

Cracked distributor cap terminals

Replace distributor cap

Shorted spark plug wire

Determine cause and repair

Mechanical problem in engine

Determine cause and repair

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Spark plugs fouled

Replace spark plugs

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Hard Starting

Binding carburetor linkage

Eliminate binding

Binding choke linkage

Eliminate binding

Binding choke piston

Eliminate binding

Restricted choke vacuum

Check vacuum lines for blockage

Worn or dirty needle valve and seat

Clean carburetor, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Float sticking

Readjust or replace float see the ENGINE

PERFORMANCE section

Incorrect choke adjustment

Reset choke adjustment see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Defective coil

Replace coil

Improper spark plug gap

Regap spark plugs

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Detonation

Over-advanced ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Fuel lines clogged

Clean fuel lines

EGR system malfunction

Check and repair EGR system

PCV system malfunction

Repair PCV system

Vacuum leaks

Check and repair vacuum system

Loose fan belts

Tighten or replace fan belts, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Restricted airflow

Remove restriction

Vacuum advance malfunction

Check distributor operation

Dieseling

Binding carburetor linkage

Eliminate binding

Binding throttle linkage

Eliminate blinding

Binding choke linkage or fast idle cam

Eliminate binding

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Defective idle solenoid

Replace idle solenoid see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Improper base idle speed

Reset idle speed, see see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Incorrect idle mixture setting

Reset idle mixture, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Faulty Acceleration

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Engine cold and choke too lean

Adjust choke and allow engine to warm-up

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Defective coil

Replace coil

Faulty Low Speed Operation

Clogged idle transfer slots

Clean idle transfer slots, see FUEL

Restricted idle air bleeds and passages

Disassemble and clean carburetor, see FUEL

Clogged air cleaner

Replace air filter

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Defective ignition wires

Replace ignition wire see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Defective distributor cap

Replace distributor cap

Faulty High Speed Operation

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Defective distributor centrifugal advance

Replace advance mechanism

Defective distributor vacuum advance

Replace advance unit

Incorrect spark plugs or plug gap

Check gap and/or replace spark plugs

Faulty choke operation

Check choke and repair as required

Clogged vacuum passages

Remove restrictions

Improper size or clogged main jet

Check jet size and clean, see FUEL

Restricted air cleaner

Check filter and replace as necessary

Defective distributor cap, rotor or coil

Replace cap, rotor or coil

Misfire at All Speeds

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Defective spark plug wires

Replace spark plug wires

Defective distributor cap, rotor, or coil

Replace cap, rotor, or coil

Cracked or broken vacuum hoses

Replace vacuum hoses

Vacuum leaks

Repair vacuum leaks

Fuel lines clogged

Remove restriction

Hesitation

Cracked or broken vacuum

Replace vacuum hoses hoses

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Vacuum leaks

Repair Vacuum leaks

Binding carburetor linkage

Eliminate binding

Binding throttle linkage

Eliminate binding

Binding choke linkage or fast idle cam

Eliminate binding

Improper float setting

Readjust float setting, see FUEL

Cracked or broken ignition wires

Replace ignition wires

Rough Idle, Missing or Stalling

Incorrect curb idle or fast idle speed

Reset idle speed, see see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Incorrect basic timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Improper idle mixture adjustment

Reset idle mixture, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Improper feedback system operation

Check feedback system see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Incorrect spark plug gap

Reset spark plug gap, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Moisture in ignition components

Dry components

Loose or broken ignition wires

Replace ignition wires

Damaged distributor cap or or rotor

Replace distributor cap or rotor

Faulty ignition coil

Replace ignition coil

Fuel filter clogged or worn

Replace fuel filter

Damaged idle mixture screw

Replace idle mixture screw, see FUEL

Improper fast idle cam adjustment

Reset fast idle cam adjustment, see TUNE- see

ENGINE PERFORMANCE

Improper EGR valve operation

Replace EGR valve

Faulty PCV valve air flow

Replace PCV valve

Choke binding or improper choke setting

Reset choke or eliminate binding

Vacuum leak

Repair vacuum leak

Improper float bowl fuel level

Reset float adjustment, see FUEL

Clogged air bleed or idle passages

Clean carburetor passages, see FUEL

Clogged or worn air cleaner filter

Replace air filter

Faulty choke vacuum diaphragm

Replace diaphragm, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Exhaust manifold heat valve inoperative

Replace heat valve

Improper distributor spark advance

Check distributor operation

Leaking valves or valve components

Check and repair valvetrain

Improper carburetor mounting

Remove and remount carburetor

Excessive play in distributor shaft

Replace distributor

Loose or corroded wiring connections

Repair or replace as required

Engine Surges

Improper PCV valve airflow

Replace PCV valve

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Vacuum leaks

Repair vacuum leaks

Clogged air bleeds

Remove restriction

EGR valve malfunction

Replace EGR valve

Restricted air cleaner filter

Replace air filter

Cracked or broken vacuum hoses

Replace vacuum hoses

Cracked or broken ignition wires

Replace ignition wires

Vacuum advance malfunction

Check unit and replace as necessary

Defective or fouled spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Ping or Spark Knock

Incorrect ignition timing

Reset ignition timing see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Distributor centrifugal or vacuum advance malfunction

Check operation and replace as necessary

Carburetor setting too lean

Readjust mixture setting, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Vacuum leak

Eliminate vacuum leak

EGR valve malfunction

Replace EGR valve

Poor Gasoline Mileage

Cracked or broken vacuum

Replace vacuum hoses hoses

Vacuum leaks

Repair vacuum leaks

Defective ignition wires

Replace wires

Incorrect choke setting

Readjust setting, see ENGINE PERFORMANCE

Defective vacuum advance

Replace vacuum advance

Defective spark plugs

Replace spark plugs

Binding carburetor power piston

Eliminate binding

Dirt in carburetor jets

Clean and/or replace jets

Incorrect float adjustment

Readjust float setting, see FUEL

Defective power valve

Replace power valve, see ENGINE

PERFORMANCE

Incorrect idle speed

Readjust idle speed

Engine Stalls

Improper float level

Readjust float level

Leaking needle valve and seat

Replace needle valve and seat

Vacuum leaks

Eliminate vacuum leaks

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Excessive Noise

Loose pump-to-drive assembly screws

Tighten screws

Loose tube on pump assembly

Tighten tube

Valves not functioning properly

Replace valves

Oil Leakage

Loose end plug

Tighten end plug

Bad seal crimp

Remove and re-crimp seal

Condition

Possible Cause

Noisy In Forward Gears

Low gear oil level, Loose bell housing bolts, Worn

bearings or gears

Clunk On Deceleration (FWD Only)

Loose engine mounts, Worn inboard CV joints, Worn differential pinion shaft, Side gear hub counterbore in case worn oversize

Gear Clash When Shifting Forward Gears

Clutch Out Of Adjustment, Shift linkage damaged or out of adjustment, Gears or synchronizers

damaged, Low gear oil level

Transmission Noisy When Moving (RWD Only) Quiet In Neutral With Clutch Engaged

Worn rear outputshaft bearing

Gear Rattle

Worn bearings, Wrong gear oil, Low gear oil, Worn

gears

Steady Ticking At Idle (Increases With RPM)

Broken tooth on gear

Gear Clash When Shifting Forward Gears

Worn or broken synchronizers

Loud Whine In Reverse

Normal condition (1)

Noise When Stepping On Clutch

Bad release bearing, Worn pilot bearing

Ticking Or Screeching As Clutch Is Engaged

Faulty release bearing, Uneven pressure plate

fingers

Condition

Possible Cause

Click Or Snap When Clutch Is Engaged

Worn clutch fork, Worn or broken front bearing

retainer

Transmission Shifts Hard

Clutch not releasing, Shift mechanism binding,

Clutch installed backwards

Will Not Shift Into One Gear, Shifts Into All Others

Bent shift fork, Worn detent balls

Locked Into Gear, Cannot Shift

Clutch adjustment, Worn detent balls

Transmission Jumps Out Of Gear

Pilot bearing worn, Bent shift fork, Worn gear teeth or face, Excessive gear train end play, Worn synchronizers, Missing detent ball spring, Shift mechanism worn or out of adjustment, Engine or transmission mount bolts loose or out of adjustment,

Transmission not aligned

Shift Lever Rattle

Worn shift lever or detents, Worn shift forks, Worn

synchronizers sleeve

Shift Lever Hops Under Acceleration

Worn engine or transmission mounts

(1) Most units use spur cut gears in reverse and are noisy

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Chattering or Grabbing

Incorrect clutch adjustment

Adjust clutch

Oil, grease or glaze on facings

Disassemble and clean or replace

Loose "U" joint flange

See DRIVE AXLES article

Worn input shaft spline

Replace input shaft

Binding pressure plate

Replace pressure plate

Binding release lever

See CLUTCH article

Binding clutch disc hub

Replace clutch disc

Unequal pressure plate contact

Replace worn/misaligned components

Loose/bent clutch disc

Replace clutch disc

Incorrect transmission alignment

Realign transmission

Worn pressure plate, disc or flywheel

Replace damaged components

Broken or weak pressure springs

Replace pressure plate

Sticking clutch pedal

Lubricate clutch pedal & linkage

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Incorrect clutch disc facing

Replace clutch disc

Engine loose in chassis

Tighten all mounting bolts

Failure to Release

Oil or grease on clutch facings

Clean or replace clutch clutch disc

Incorrect release lever or pedal adjustment

See CLUTCH article

Worn or broken clutch facings

Replace clutch disc

Bent clutch disc or pressure plate

Replace damaged components

Clutch disc hub binding on input shaft

Clean or replace clutch disc and/or input shaft

Binding pilot bearing

Replace pilot bearing

Sticking release bearing sleeve

Replace release bearing and/or sleeve

Binding clutch cable

See CLUTCH article

Defective clutch master

Replace master cylinder

Defective clutch slave

Replace slave cylinder

Air in hydraulic system

Bleed hydraulic system

Rattling

Weak or broken release lever spring

Replace spring and check alignment

Damaged pressure plate

Replace pressure plate

Broken clutch return spring

Replace return spring

Worn splines on clutch disc or input shaft

Replace clutch disc and/or input shaft

Worn clutch release bearing

Replace release bearing

Dry or worn pilot bearing

Lubricate or replace pilot bearing

Unequal release lever contact

Align or replace release lever

Incorrect pedal free play

Adjust free play

Warped or damaged clutch disc

Replace damaged components

Slipping

Pressure springs worn or

Release pressure plate

Oily, greasy or worn facings

Clean or replace clutch disc

Incorrect clutch alignment

Realign clutch assembly

Warped clutch disc or pressure plate

Replace damaged components

Binding release levers or clutch pedal

Lubricate and/or replace release components

Squeaking

Worn or damaged release

Replace release bearing

Dry or worn pilot or release bearing

Lubricate or replace assembly

Pilot bearing turning in crankshaft

Replace pilot bearing and/or crankshaft

Worn input shaft bearing

Replace bearing and seal

Incorrect transmission alignment

Realign transmission

Dry release fork between pivot

Lubricate release fork and pivot

Heavy and/or Stiff Pedal

Sticking release bearing sleeve

Replace release bearing and/or sleeve

Dry or binding clutch pedal hub

Lubricate and align components

Floor mat interference with pedal

Lay mat flat in proper area

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Dry or binding ball/fork pivots

Lubricate and align components

Faulty clutch cable

Replace clutch cable

Noisy Clutch Pedal

Faulty interlock switch

Replace interlock switch

Self-adjuster ratchet noise

Lubricate or replace self-adjuster

Speed control interlock switch

Lubricate or replace interlock switch

Clutch Pedal Sticks Down

Binding clutch cable

See CLUTCH article

Springs weak in pressure plate

Replace pressure plate

Binding in clutch linkage

Lubricate and free linkage

Noisy

Dry release bearing

Lubricate or replace release bearing

Dry or worn pilot bearing

Lubricate or replace bearing

Worn input shaft bearing

Replace bearing

Transmission Click

Weak springs in pressure

Replace pressure plate plate

Release fork loose on ball stud

Replace release fork and/or ball stud

Oil on clutch disc damper

Replace clutch disc

Broken spring in slave cylinder

Replace slave cylinder

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Knocking or Clunking

Differential Side Gear Clearance

Check Clearance

Worn Pinion Shaft

Replace Pinion Shaft

Axle Shaft End Play

Check End Play

Missing Gear Teeth

Check Differential/Replace Gear

Wrong Axle Backlash

Check Backlash

Misaligned Driveline

Realign Driveline

Clinking During Engagement

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Side Gear Clearance

Check Clearance

Ring and Pinion Backlash

Check Backlash

Worn/Loose Pinion Shaft

Replace Shaft/Bearing

Bad "U" Joint

Replace "U" Joint

Sticking Slip Yoke

Lube Slip Yoke

Broken Rear Axle Mount

Replace Mount

Loose Drive Shaft Flange

Check Flange

Click/Chatter On Turns

Differential Side Gear Clearance

Check Clearance

Wrong Turn On Plates (1)

Replace Clutch Plates

Wrong Differential Lubricant (1)

Change Lubricant

Knock Or Click

Flat Spot on Rear Wheel Bearing

Replace Wheel Bearing

Low Vibration At All Speeds

Faulty Wheel Bearing

Replace Wheel Bearing

Faulty "U" Joint

Replace "U" Joint

Faulty Drive Shaft

Balance Drive Shaft

Faulty Companion Flange

Replace Flange

Faulty Slip Yoke Flange

Replace Flange

(1) Limited slip differential only.

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSE

Grease Leaks

CV boot torn or cracked

Clicking Noise on Cornering

Damaged outer CV

Clunk Noise on Acceleration

Damaged inner CV

Vibration or Shudder on Acceleration

Sticking, damaged or worn CV Misalignment or

spring height

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Rattle or Chucking Noise in Rack and Pinion

Rack and pinion mounting bracket loose

Tighten all mounting bolts

Lack of/or incorrect lubricant

Correct as necessary

Steering gear mounting bolts loose

Tighten all mounting bolts

Excessive Play

Front wheel bearing improperly adjusted

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Loose or worn steering linkage

See STEERING LINKAGE article

Loose or worn steering gear shift

See MANUAL STEERING GEAR article

Steering arm loose on gear shaft

See MANUAL STEERING GEAR article

Steering gear housing bolts loose

Tighten all mounting bolts

Steering gear adjustment too loose

See MANUAL STEERING GEAR article

Steering arms loose on knuckles

Tighten and check steering linkage

Rack and pinion mounting loose

Tighten all mounting bolts

Rack and pinion out of adjustment

See adjustment in STEERING article

Tie rod end loose

Tighten and check steering linkage

Excessive Pitman shaft-to-ball nut lash

Repair as necessary

Poor Returnability

Lack of lubricant in ball joint or linkage

Lubricate and service systems

Binding in linkage or ball joints

See STEERING LINKAGE and SUSPENSION

article

Improper front end alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article

Improper tire pressure

Inflate to proper pressure

Tie rod binding

Inflate to proper pressure

Shaft seal rubbing shaft

See STEERING COLUMN article

Excessive Vertical Motion

Improper tire pressure

Inflate to proper pressure

Tires, wheels or rotors out of balance

Balance tires then check wheels and rotors

Worn or faulty shock absorbers

Check and replace if necessary

Loose tie rod ends or steering

Tighten or replace if necessary

Loose or worn wheel bearings

See SUSPENSION article

Steering Pulls to One Side

Improper tire pressure

Inflate to proper pressure

Front tires are different sizes

Rotate or replace if necessary

Wheel bearings not adjusted properly

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Bent or broken suspension components

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Improper wheel alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Brakes dragging

See BRAKES article

Instability

Low or uneven tire pressure

Inflate to proper pressure

Loose or worn wheel bearings

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Loose or worn idler arm bushing

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Loose or worn strut bushings

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Incorrect front wheel alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article

Steering gear not centered

See MANUAL STEERING GEARS article

Springs or shock

Check and replace if necessary

Improper cross shaft

See MANUAL STEERING GEARS article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Rattle or Chucking Noise

Pressure hoses touching engine parts

Adjust to proper clearance

Loose Pitman shaft

Adjust or replace if necessary

Tie rods ends or Pitman arm loose

Tighten and check system

Rack and pinion mounts loose

Tighten all mounting bolts

Free play in worm gear

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Loose sector shaft or thrust bearing adjustment

See POWER STEERING GEAR

Free play in pot coupling

See STEERING COLUMN article

Worn shaft serrations

See STEERING COLUMN article

Growl in Steering Pump

Excessive pressure in hoses

Restricted hoses, see POWER STEERING

GEAR article

Scored pressure plates

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Scored thrust plates or rotor

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Extreme wear of cam ring

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Rattle in Steering Pump

Vanes not installed

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Vanes sticking in rotor

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Swish noise in Pump

Defective flow control valve

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Groan in Steering Pump

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Air in fluid

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Poor pressure hose connection

Tighten and check, replace if necessary

Squawk When Turning

Damper "O" ring on valve spool cut

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Moan or Whine in Pump

Pump shaft bearing scored

Replace bearing and fluid

Air in fluid or fluid level low

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Hose or column grounded

Check and replace if necessary

Cover "O" ring missing or damaged

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Valve cover baffle missing or damaged

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Interference of components in pump

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Loose or poor bracket alignment

Correct or replace if necessary

Hissing When Parking

Internal leakage in steering gear

Check valved assembly first

Chirp in Steering Pump

Loose or worn power steering belt

Adjust or replace if necessary

Buzzing When Not Steering

Noisy pump

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Free play in steering shaft bearing

See STEERING COLUMN article

Bearing loose on shaft serrations

See STEERING COLUMN article

Clicking Noise in Pump

Pump slippers too long

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Broken slipper springs

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Excessive wear or nicked rotors

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Damaged cam contour

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Poor Return of Wheel

Wheel rubbing against turn signal

See STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES article

Flange rubbing steering gear adjuster

See STEERING COLUMN article

Tight or frozen steering shaft bearing

See STEERING COLUMN article

Steering gear out of adjustment

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Sticking or plugged spool valve

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Improper front end alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article

Wheel bearings worn or loose

See FRONT SUSPENSION article

Ties rods or ball joints binding

Check and replace if necessary

Intermediate shaft joints binding

See STEERING COLUMN article

Kinked pressure hoses

Correct or replace if necessary

Loose housing head spanner nut

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Damaged valve lever

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Sector shaft adjusted too tight

See ADJUSTMENTS in POWER STEERING

GEAR article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Worm thrust bearing adjusted too tight

See ADJUSTMENTS in POWER STEERING

GEAR article

Reaction ring sticking in cylinder

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Reaction ring sticking in housing head

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Steering pump internal leakage

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Steering gear-to-column misalignment

See STEERING COLUMN article

Lack of lubrication in linkage

Service front suspension

Lack of lubrication in ball joints

Service front suspension

Increased Effort When Turning Wheel Fast Foaming, Milky Power Steering Fluid, Low Fluid Level or Low Pressure

High internal pump leakage

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Power steering pump belt slipping

Adjust or replace if necessary

Low fluid level

Check and fill to proper level

Engine idle speed to low

Adjust to correct setting

Air in pump fluid system

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Pump output low

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Steering gear malfunctioning

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Wheel Surges or Jerks

Low fluid level

Check and fill to proper level

Loose fan belt

Adjust or replace if necessary

Insufficient pump pressure

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Sticky flow control valve

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Linkage hitting oil pan at full turn

Replace bent components

Kick Back or Free Play

Air in pump fluid system

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Worn poppet valve in steering gear

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Excessive over center lash

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Thrust bearing out of adjustment

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Free play in pot coupling

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Steering gear coupling loose on shaft

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Steering disc mounting bolts loose

Tighten or replace if necessary

Coupling loose on worm shaft

Tighten or replace if necessary

Improper sector shaft adjustment

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Excessive worm piston side play

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Damaged valve lever

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Universal joint loose

Tighten or replace if necessary

Defective rotary valve

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

No Power When Parking

Sticking flow control valve

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Insufficient pump pressure output

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Excessive internal pump leakage

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Excessive internal gear leakage

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Flange rubs against gear adjust plug

See STEERING COLUMN article

Loose pump belt

Adjust or replace if necessary

Low fluid level

Check and add proper amount of fluid

Engine idle too low

Adjust to correct setting

Steering gear-to-column misaligned

See STEERING COLUMN article

No Power, Left Turn

Left turn reaction seal "O" ring worn

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Left turn reaction seal damaged/missing

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Cylinder head "O" ring damaged

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

No Power, Right Turns

Column pot coupling bottomed

See STEERING COLUMN article

Right turn reaction seal "O" ring worn

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Right turn reaction seal damaged

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Internal leakage through piston end plug

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Internal leakage through side plugs

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Lack of Effort in Turning

Left and/or right reaction seal sticking in cylinder head

Replace, see POWER STEERING GEAR article

Wanders to One Side

Front end alignment incorrect

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT article

Unbalanced steering gear valve

See POWER STEERING GEAR article

Low Pressure Due to Steering Pump

Flow control valve stuck or inoperative

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Pressure plate not flat against cam ring

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Extreme wear of cam ring

Replace and check adjustments

Scored plate, thrust plate or rotor

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Vanes not installed properly

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Vanes sticking in rotor slots

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

Cracked/broken thrust or pressure plate

See POWER STEERING PUMP article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Noise in Steering

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Coupling pulled apart

See STEERING COLUMNS article

Column not correctly aligned

See STEERING COLUMNS article

Broken lower joint

Replace joint

Horn contact ring not

See STEERING COLUMN article

Bearing not lubricated

See STEERING COLUMN article

Shaft snap ring not properly seated

Reseat or replace snap ring

Plastic spherical joint not lubricated

See STEERING COLUMN article

Shroud or housing loose

Tighten holding screws

Lock plate retaining ring not seated

See STEERING COLUMN article

Loose sight shield

Tighten holding screws

High Steering Shaft Effort

Column assembly misaligned

See STEERING COLUMN article

Improperly installed dust shield

Adjust or replace

Tight steering universal joint

See STEERING COLUMN article

High Shift Effort

Column is out of alignment

See STEERING COLUMN article

Improperly installed dust shield

Adjust or replace

Seals or bearings not lubricated

See STEERING COLUMNS article

Mounting bracket screws too long

Replace with new shorter screws

Burrs on shift tube

Remove burrs or replace tube

Lower bowl bearing assembled wrong

See STEERING COLUMN article

Shift tube bent or broken

Replace as necessary

Improper adjustment of shift levers

See STEERING COLUMN article

Improper Trans. Shifting

Sheared shift tube joint

Replace as necessary

Sheared lower shaft lever

Replace as necessary

Improper shift lever adjustment

See STEERING COLUMN article

Improper gate plate adjustment

See STEERING COLUMN article

Excess Play in Column

Instrument panel bracket bolts loose

Tighten bolts and check bracket

Broken weld nut on jacket

See STEERING COLUMN article

Instrument bracket capsule sheared

See STEERING COLUMN article

Column bracket/jacket bolts loose

Tighten bolts and check bracket

Steering Locks in Gear

Release lever mechanism

See STEERING COLUMN article

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Front End Noise

Loose or worn wheel

See Wheel Bearing Adjustment in

SUSPENSION

Worn shocks or shock mountings

Replace struts or strut mountings

Worn struts or strut mountings

Replace struts or strut mountings

Loose or worn lower control arm

See SUSPENSION

Loose steering gear-to-frame bolts

See STEERING

Worn control arm bushings

See SUSPENSION

Ball joints not lubricated

Lubricate ball joints & see Ball Joint Checking in

SUSPENSION

Front Wheel Shake, Shimmy, or Vibration

Tires or wheels out of balance

Check tire balance

Incorrect wheel alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Drive shaft unbalanced

Check drive shaft balance

Loose or worn wheel bearings

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Loose or worn tie rod ends

See SUSPENSION

Worn upper ball joints

See Ball Joint Checking in SUSPENSION

Worn shock absorbers

Replace shock absorbers

Worn strut bushings

Replace strut bushings

Car Pulls to One Side

Mismatched or uneven tires

Check tire condition

Broken or sagging springs

See SUSPENSION

Loose or worn strut bushings

See SUSPENSION

Improper wheel alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Improper rear axle alignment

Check rear axle alignment

Power steering gear unbalanced

See STEERING

Front brakes dragging

See BRAKES

Abnormal Tire Wear

Unbalanced tires

Check tire balance & rotation

Sagging or broken springs

See SUSPENSION

Incorrect front end alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Faulty shock absorbers

Replace chock absorbers

Scuffed Tires

Toe-In incorrect

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Suspension arm bent or twisted

See appropriate SUSPENSION article

Springs Bottom or Sag

Bent or broken springs

See SUSPENSION

Leaking or worn shock absorbers

Replace shock absorbers

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Frame misalignment

Check frame for damage

Spring Noises

Loose "U" Bolts

See SUSPENSION

Loose or worn bushings

See SUSPENSION

Worn or missing interliners

See SUSPENSION

Shock Absorber Noise

Loose shock mountings

Check & tighten mountings

Worn bushings

Replace bushings

Air in system

Bleed air from system

Undercoating on shocks

Remove undercoating

Car Leans or Sways on Corners

Loose stabilizer bar

See SUSPENSION

Faulty shocks or mountings

Replace shocks or mountings

Broken or sagging springs

See SUSPENSION

Shock Absorbers Leaking

Worn seals or reservoir tube crimped

See SUSPENSION

Broken Springs

Loose "U" bolts

See SUSPENSION

Inoperative shock absorbers

Replace shock absorbers

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Premature Tire Wear

Improper tire inflation

Check tire pressure

Front alignment out of tolerance

See ALIGNMENT SPECS in WHEEL

ALIGNMENT section

Suspension components worn

See SUSPENSION section

Steering system components worn

See STEERING section

Improper standing height

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Uneven or sagging springs

See SUSPENSION section

Bent wheel

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Improper torsion bar adjustment

See SUSPENSION section

Loose or worn wheel bearings

See WHEEL BEARING ADJ. in SUSPENSION

section

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Worn or defective shock

Replace shock absorbers

Tires out of balance

Check tire balance

Pulls to One Side

Improper tire inflation

Check tire pressure

Brake dragging

See BRAKE section

Mismatched tires

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Broken or sagging spring

See SUSPENSION section

Broken torsion bar

See SUSPENSION section

Power steering valve not centered

See STEERING section

Front alignment out of tolerance

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT section

Defective wheel bearing

See WHEEL BEARINGS in SUSPENSION

section

Uneven sway bar links

See SUSPENSION section

Frame bent

Check for frame damage

Steering system bushing worn

See STEERING section

Hard Steering

Idler arm bushing too tight

See STEERING LINKAGE in STEERING

section

Ball joint tight or seized

See SUSPENSION section

Steering linkage too tight

See STEERING LINKAGE in STEERING

section

Power steering fluid low

Add proper amount of fluid

Power steering drive belt loose

See STEERING section

Power steering pump defective

See STEERING section

Steering gear out of adjustment

See STEERING section

Incorrect wheel alignment

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Damaged steering gear

See STEERING section

Damaged suspension

See SUSPENSION section

Bent steering knuckle or supports

See SUSPENSION section

Vehicle "Wanders"

Strut rod or control arm bushing worn

See SUSPENSION section

Loose or worn wheel bearings

See WHEEL BEARINGS in SUSPENSION

section

Improper tire inflation

Check tire pressure

Stabilizer bar missing or defective

See SUSPENSION section

Wheel alignment out of tolerance

See Adjustment in WHEEL ALIGNMENT

section

Broken spring

See SUSPENSION section

Defective shock absorber

Replace shock absorbers

Worn steering & suspension components

See SUSPENSION section

Front End Shimmy

CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE

CORRECTION

Tire out of balance/round

Check tire balance

Excessive wheel runout

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT

Insufficient or improper caster

See WHEEL ALIGNMENT section

Worn suspension or steering components

See SUSPENSION section

Defective shock absorbers

Replace shock absorber

Wheel bearings worn or loose

See WHEEL BEARING ADJ. in SUSPENSION

section

Power steering reaction Bracket loose

See STEERING section

Steering gear box (rack) mounting loose

See STEERING section

Steering gear adjustment loose

See STEERING section

Worn spherical joints

See SUSPENSION section

Toe-In Not Adjustable

Lower control arm bent

See SUSPENSION section

Frame bent

Check frame for damage

Camber Not Adjustable

Control arm bent

See SUSPENSION section

Frame bent

Check frame for damage

Hub & bearing not seated properly

See SUSPENSION section