Engine stalls

This is a 97 PA

The service engine soon light stays on. The engine run smooth but stalls, suspect a electrical glitch? The dash voltmeter is erractic within a couple volts while running. When I hit the brakes the all lights dim(head lights too). I put a new alternator on but to no avail.

Thanks
xavier h

First thing to do is go by a local auto parts and have them read the codes. They do it for free, then we'll be able to help diagnose the problem.

Mine PA was doing exactly the same as delaney0220 post. Parts store analysis indicated a faulty Throttle Sensor Control, $56. It was simple to replace, however, after a 3000 RPM start up it settled down, now it lacks power at acceleration range of 30-40 mph or "tip-in" speed. I read now the sensor requires a adjustment? Complicated?

Any idea of the lights dimming during brake application?

Thanks All
Xavier h:iceslolan

What was the code? More info on the PA. Tune up? Mileage?

#05-06-04-058: Intermittent Chuggle or Fishbite on Light Acceleration or at Highway Speeds with No Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) (Replace Throttle Position (TPS) Sensor) - (Sep 7, 2005)


Subject: Intermittent Chuggle or Fishbite on Light Acceleration or at Highway Speeds with No Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) (Replace Throttle Position (TPS) Sensor)


Models: 1995-1999 Buick Riviera

1995-2004 Buick Regal

1995-2005 Buick LeSabre, Park Avenue

1997-2005 Buick Century

1995-2001 Chevrolet Lumina

1995-2002 Chevrolet Camaro

1995-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo

2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala

1995-1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, Ninety Eight

1995-1999 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight

1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue

1995-2002 Pontiac Firebird

1995-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix

1995-2005 Pontiac Bonneville

with 3800 V6 Engine (VIN K -- RPO L36)




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Condition
Some customers may comment on an intermittent chuggle or fishbite on light acceleration or at steady-state highway speeds (typically 80-105 km/h [50-65 mph]) with no PCM DTCs set. This condition may lead the technician to suspect the TCC circuit or torque converter.

Cause
This condition may be caused by intermittent operation of the Throttle Position (TPS) Sensor.

Correction
In observed cases, the Tech 2® is not fast enough to consistently detect this condition during a snapshot. It is recommended to use a DVOM set to the min/max recording mode. Connect the DVOM at the TPS connector (positive lead to TPS feedback signal pin and negative lead to TPS ground pin). Duplicate this condition by driving the vehicle. If the voltage dropout (less than 0.45 v) is recorded on the DVOM, replace the TPS sensor and re-evaluate the vehicle before continuing with other driveability or transmission diagnosis.

This is some deep stuff. Seems like the TPS has to be rigged. Part store says they have to erase the check engine soon light, will go by after work. But the engine revs now and the car is hestitate till about 3200 RPM when acelleraling.

When was the last tune up? Part store erase it? Thats a first. They should be able to read it without erasing it.

148k, last tune up was at 82K, is there more to a tune up than changing plugs?
Clerk said he can re-set the service eng soon light after I install the TCS??? Seems this need rigged with the throttle position, ugh.

148k, last tune up was at 82K, is there more to a tune up than changing plugs?
Clerk said he can re-set the service eng soon light after I install the TCS??? Seems this need rigged with the throttle position, ugh.
Not sure how many drive cycles it takes to clear the code so I'd have the AP clear it for you. Rescan and see what comes back.

Tune up- I'm not familiar with the vehicle but off the top of my head. Plugs (use OEM's), ign wires, air filter, pcv valve, gas filter. 82K miles on plugs is up there unless they are platinums and even at that 100k is recommended max.