Cadillac Repair: My 1981 Fleetwood Brougham-Check Engine Light, cadillac fleetwood brougham, georgia emissions test

Question
My car (1981 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham with the 8-6-4 engine) is currently at the mechanic's due to the check engine light staying on.  Right before I dropped it off, the "no charge" light on the battery also came on.  We replaced the alternator in February of this year; the catalytic converter and valve were replaced in June to pass the Georgia emissions test, but I was told at that time that the timing chain was slipping and would need to be replaced.  The car also leaks oil around one of the plugs, and has been doing so the entire 5 years I have been driving it-uses about a quart of oil bi-weekly.  It has 148,000 miles on it.  The shop's computer does not go back far enough to decipher the trouble codes that the car's computer is displaying.  The codes are:  23, 30 and 88.  This car belonged to my dad, now deceased, and I am in the process of restoring it.  Please help if you can.

Thanks,
Carmen

Answer
The 88 is NOT a code. It is just a reference number telling that the computer (ECM) is able to display codes so simply ignore this 88.

The code 23 and 30 if memory serves is due to a faulty ISC (Idle Speed Control motor) of which is the electronic unit mounted on the side of the throttle body assembly of which controls your idle speed.

REPLACE it and follow the DIRECTIONS included in the box.

Your oil leak is most likely caused by worn/cracked valve stem seals of which can be replaced WITHOUT pulling the cylinder heads.



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