Diagnostic Aids

PINPOINT TESTS A, B and C are intended to diagnose hard faults. Intermittent failures may be difficult to diagnose using these procedures. See PINPOINT TEST E for intermittent diagnosis. Following information should be noted during testing:

All voltage readings given in test procedures are based on values obtained using a standard DVOM such as Rotunda (007 -00001) or Fluke (20 or 70 Series). To ensure actual A/C voltage readings taken are consistent with A/C voltage readings in PINPOINT TESTS, DO NOT use a RMS type meter (such as Fluke 8060a).
When instructed to inspect a wiring harness, perform both a visual inspection and a continuity test.
When making voltage checks, ground connections should be made at negative battery terminal or cast iron surface of engine.
When making measurements on a wiring harness or connector, perform a wiggle test while measuring.
When making voltage checks, ground readings are defined as a value of less than 1.0 volt. Battery voltage is defined as a value of more than 10 volts.
Circuits are identified in all capital letters; for example: PIP. Manufacturer's breakout box overlay test terminals are identified by a "J" prefix; for example: J15 (PIP). This indicates test terminal number and circuit identification.
Test procedures are intended to identify faulty components or wiring while fault present. If complaint is an intermittent condition, refer to the TESTS W/O CODES - 5.8L EEC-IV article.

NOTE: Start all diagnostics with QUICK TEST. See procedures in TESTS W/CODES - 5.8L EEC-IV article. Following tests are dependent on results and diagnostic trouble codes received during QUICK TEST.

DISTRIBUTOR IGNITION PINPOINT TEST INDEX

Application

Pinpoint Test

No Start & No Codes Present

No Start & Code 211 Or 212 Present (PIP At PCM Fault)

Vehicle Runs Normal Until SPOUT In-Line Connector Disconnected

Code 212 (Engine Runs, IDM Missing)

Code 213 (Timing Incorrect, SPOUT Open, Poor Fuel Economy Or Poor Driveability)

Intermittent Stall

Misfire Under Load & No Codes Present

Engine Continues To Run After Ignition Is Turned Off

⁽¹⁾

⁽¹⁾	Check ICM PWR circuit for short to power. Repair as necessary. See Fig 1 and appropriate wiring diagram in the WIRING DIAGRAMS - 5.8L article.

WARNING: DO NOT connect EEC-IV diagnostic cable and PCM to EEC-IV breakout box simultaneously.

Fig 1: Distributor Ignition System Wiring Diagram