Nissan Repair: Nissan Pathfinder, screwdriver blade, nissan pathfinder

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1991 pathfinder with a 3.3 liter v6 5-speed. When its cold, it starts right up drives for 15-20 min. and it will begin to buck and then kill. If I give it gas, sometimes it will keep running. But most of the time, it just shuts off and wont start for about 20 min. Any ideas? I thought of the fuel pump, but I've been told they either work or they don't...no in-between. Please help!

ANSWER: Hi Lori -

Sounds like you have a faulty ignition module. It is a tiny computer like device mounted in the distributor. Usually it has a heat sync bed that keeps it cooler when the engine warms up. Over time, the sync disintegrates, causing the module to fail, usually after the car is running for a while. And yes, it starts up after it cools down a bit.

Have this replaced, and you should be good to go. If you need instructions on replacement, please get back to me and I will walk you step by step.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Calvin,
Thank you for your reply. Well, I have replaced the ignition module, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, rotor cap, distributor, and ignition coil, all within the last week. It now seems to be acting up worse since I have replaced all of the above. Your assistance is greatly appreciated! :)

Thanks,
Lori

ANSWER: Hi Lori -

I am sorry that you are not getting positive results with your car repair. I have experienced this before and it was always the module. I hope it is not the ECM, or car computer, but I would hate to guess. Is the check engine light on?

If you can, do this test -

When the vehicle kills and you cannot start it, remove one spark plug wire and insert a screwdriver in the boot. Have someone crank the engine while you hold the screwdriver blade about 1/4" away from any metal surface of the car (do not touch any metal surface while doing this). There should be a spark jumping between the 2 metal surfaces.

This will tell you if the problem is electrical or fuel, and then we can go from there.

PLease get back to me, I would like to help -

mahalo
calvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Calvin,

I have done the spark test when it wouldn't start and it does spark. No, the check engine light is not on. It is bucking and killing worse now(in less than 15 min.) Thank you again for your assistance.

Thanks,
Lori

Answer
Hi Lori -

OK, now we can be certain this is a fuel delivery issue. There is a fuel cut off relay that cuts power to the fuel pump in the event the car overturns or is in an accident. Might want to check that.

You have to forgive me as it is difficult for all of us to diagnose vehicles when we are not physically there. Let me do some additional research and I will definitely get back to you. Too bad you are not in hawaii - lol.

If it is easier to communicate to me, my email address is cjiwash@yahoo.com.

I'll get back to you -
thanks
calvin