Temperature vs Resistance - Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
| Temperature C°/F° | Resistance Minimum Ohms | Resistance Maximum Ohms |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) | ||
| 40/-40 | 40,490 | 50,136 |
| 20/-4 | 14,096 | 16,827 |
| 10/14 | 8,642 | 10,152 |
| 0/32 | 5,466 | 6,326 |
| 20/68 | 2,351 | 2,649 |
| 25/77 | 1,941 | 2,173 |
| 40/104 | 1,118 | 1,231 |
| 60/140 | 573 | 618 |
| 80/176 | 313 | 332 |
| 100/212 | 182 | 191 |
| 120/248 | 109 | 116 |
| 140/284 | 068 | 074 |
Temperature vs Resistance - Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
Temperature vs Resistance - Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
| Temperature C°/F° | Resistance Minimum Ohms | Resistance Maximum Ohms |
|---|---|---|
| Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor | ||
| 40/-40 | 35,140 | 43,760 |
| 20/-4 | 12,660 | 15,120 |
| 10/14 | 7,943 | 9,307 |
| 0/32 | 5,119 | 5,892 |
| 20/68 | 2,290 | 2,551 |
| 25/77 | 1,900 | 2,100 |
| 40/104 | 1,096 | 1,238 |
| 60/140 | 565 | 654 |
| 80/176 | 312 | 370 |
| 100/212 | 184 | 222 |
| 120/248 | 114 | 141 |
| 140/284 | 74 | 93 |
Temperature vs Resistance - Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
Idle Learn Procedure
- Turn OFF the ignition for 30 seconds.
- Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF for 60 seconds.
- Turn OFF the ignition.
- Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
- Clear the DTCs with a scan tool.
Throttle Body Service
- Remove the air cleaner intake duct. Refer to «Air Cleaner Intake Duct Replacement»(ref-197548-S12301214282005101200000) .
- Fully open the throttle valve in order to Inspect the throttle body bore and the throttle valve plate for any deposits.
- Use a clean shop towel and Top Engine Cleaner GM P/N 1052626 or equivalent product in order to clean the throttle body bore and the throttle valve plate. If necessary, use a parts cleaning brush in order to remove heavy deposits.
- Install the air cleaner duct. Refer to «Air Cleaner Intake Duct Replacement»(ref-197548-S12301214282005101200000) .
Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure
| CAUTION | Gasoline or gasoline vapors are highly flammable. A fire could occur if an ignition source is present. Never drain or store gasoline or diesel fuel in an open container, due to the possibility of fire or explosion. Have a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher nearby. |
| CAUTION | Relieve the fuel system pressure before servicing fuel system components in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury. After relieving the system pressure, a small amount of fuel may be released when servicing the fuel lines or connections. In order to reduce the chance of personal injury, cover the regulator and the fuel line fittings with a shop towel before disconnecting. This will catch any fuel that may leak out. Place the towel in an approved container when the disconnection is complete. |
Tools Required
J 34730-1A Fuel Pressure Gage. See Special Tools .
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- Disconnect the negative battery cable in order to avoid possible fuel discharge if an accidental attempt is made to start the engine. Refer to «Battery Negative Cable Disconnect/Connect Procedure»(ref-197559-S16230888842005101200000) in Engine Electrical.
- Remove the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to «Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement»(ref-197574-S25852276312005101200000) in Engine Mechanical - 3.6L (LY7).
- Connect the J 34730-1A to the fuel pressure valve. See «Special Tools»(ref-197548-S13390517732005101200000) . Wrap a shop towel around the fitting while connecting the gage in order to avoid spillage.
- Install the bleed hose into an approved container.
- Open the valve in order to bleed the system pressure. Fuel connections are now safe for servicing.
- Drain any fuel remaining in the gage into an approved container.
- Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to «Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement»(ref-197574-S25852276312005101200000) in Engine Mechanical - 3.6L (LY7).
- Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to «Battery Negative Cable Disconnect/Connect Procedure»(ref-197559-S16230888842005101200000) in Engine Electrical.
Quick Connect Fitting(s) Service (Metal Collar)
Tools Required
- J 37088-A Fuel Line Disconnect Tool Set. See «Special Tools»(ref-197548-S13390517732005101200000) .
- J 44581 Fuel Line Disconnect Tool
Quick Connect Fitting(s) Service (Plastic Collar)
| CAUTION | Refer to Gasoline/Gasoline Vapors Caution in Cautions and Notices. |
Tools Required
J 45747 Fuel Tank Sender Wrench. See Special Tools .
J 45747 Fuel Tank Sender Wrench. See Special Tools .
Fuel System Cleaning
| CAUTION | Refer to Gasoline/Gasoline Vapors Caution in Cautions and Notices. |
The following procedure covers the disassembly and the inspection of the complete fuel supply system. If the fuel system is contaminated, the fuel system can be cleaned. You can usually determine the extent of the fuel system contamination during the disassembly.
- Remove the fuel filter. Refer to «Fuel Filter Replacement»(ref-197548-S24990639422005101200000) .
- Inspect the fuel system for contamination of the in-line fuel filter. Replace the filter after cleaning the fuel lines if the filter is plugged or contaminated.
- Remove the fuel module assemblies. Refer to «Fuel Tank Module Replacement - Primary»(ref-197548-S24807293072005101200000) and «Fuel Tank Module Replacement - Secondary»(ref-197548-S03917316792005101200000) .
- Locate the tank in a suitable work area away from any heat, any flame, or any other source of ignition.
- Perform the following procedures: Inspect the fuel sender strainer. Replace the primary fuel tank module if the strainer is contaminated. Inspect the secondary fuel tank module for debris. Clean the secondary fuel tank module if debris is found. CAUTION: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air, as flying dirt particles may cause eye injury. Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the transfer tube.
- Flush the fuel tank with running hot water for at least five minutes. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening. Rock the tank in order to ensure that the removal of the water from the tank is complete.
- Refer to «Quick Connect Fitting(s) Service (Metal Collar)»(ref-197548-S19917003432005101200000) in order to disconnect the following quick connect fittings from the fuel rail: The feed hose/pipe The return hose/pipe
- Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the fuel lines in the opposite direction from the normal fuel flow.
- Remove the fuel injectors and fuel rail. Refer to «Fuel Injectors and Fuel Rail Replacement»(ref-197548-S28119688992005101200000) .
- Clean and inspect the fuel injectors and fuel rail.
ECM Function
The ECM can supply 5 volts or 12 volts to the various sensors or switches. This is done through pull-up resistors to the regulated power supplies within the ECM. In some cases, even an ordinary shop voltmeter will not give an accurate reading because the resistance is too low. Therefore, a DMM with at least 10 megaohms input impedance is required in order to ensure accurate voltage readings.
The ECM controls the output circuits by controlling the ground or the power feed circuit through the transistors or a device called an output driver module.
EEPROM
The electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) is a permanent memory that is physically part of the ECM. The EEPROM contains program and calibration information that the ECM needs in order to control the powertrain operation.
Special equipment, as well as the correct program and calibration for the vehicle, are required in order to reprogram the ECM.
Theft Deterrent System Frequency Code Programming
This vehicle is equipped with a theft deterrent system which interfaces with the ECM. If the ECM is replaced, program the new ECM with the frequency code of the theft deterrent module that is currently on the vehicle. The vehicle will not start until this procedure is completed.
KS Module
The ECM employs an internal integrated circuit to continuously monitor the knock control evaluation circuit. The knock sensor (KS) module contains the circuitry that allows the ECM to utilize the knock sensor (KS) signals and diagnose the KS sensors and circuitry. If the ECM detects a fault in the ability of the KS module to sample these signals, a DTC sets.
Data Link Connector (DLC)
The data link connector (DLC) is a 16-pin connector that provides the technician a means of accessing serial data for aid in the diagnosis. This connector allows the technician to use a scan tool in order to monitor the various serial data parameters, and display the DTC information. The DLC is located inside of the drivers compartment, underneath the dash.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is inside of the instrument panel cluster (IPC). The MIL is controlled by the ECM and illuminates when the ECM detects a condition that affects the vehicle emissions.
ECM Service Precautions
The ECM, by design, can withstand the normal current draws that are associated with the vehicle operations. However, care must be used in order to avoid overloading any of these circuits. When testing for opens or shorts, do not ground or apply voltage to any of the ECM circuits unless the diagnostic procedure instructs you to do so. These circuits should only be tested with a DMM.
Aftermarket (Add-On) Electrical And Vacuum Equipment
Note. Do not attach add-on vacuum operated equipment to this vehicle. The use of add-on vacuum equipment may result in damage to vehicle components or systems.
Note. Connect any add-on electrically operated equipment to the vehicle's electrical system at the battery (power and ground) in order to prevent damage to the vehicle.
Aftermarket, add-on, electrical and vacuum equipment is defined as any equipment installed on a vehicle after leaving the factory that connects to the vehicles electrical or vacuum systems. No allowances have been made in the vehicle design for this type of equipment.
Add-on electrical equipment, even when installed to these strict guidelines, may still cause the powertrain system to malfunction. This may also include equipment not connected to the vehicle electrical system, such as portable telephones and radios. Therefore, the first step in diagnosing any powertrain condition is to eliminate all of the aftermarket electrical equipment from the vehicle. After this is done, if the problem still exists, the problem may be diagnosed in the normal manner.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Damage
| IMPORTANT | In order to prevent possible electrostatic discharge damage to the ECM, DO NOT touch the connector pins on the ECM. |
The electronic components that are used in the control systems are often designed to carry very low voltage. The electronic components are susceptible to damage caused by electrostatic discharge. Less than 100 volts of static electricity can cause damage to some electronic components. By comparison, it takes as much as 4,000 volts for a person to even feel the zap of a static discharge.
There are several ways for a person to become statically charged. The most common methods of charging are by friction and by induction. An example of charging by friction is a person sliding across a car seat.
Charging by induction occurs when a person with well insulated shoes stands near a highly charged object and momentarily touches ground. Charges of the same polarity are drained off leaving the person highly charged with the opposite polarity. Static charges can cause damage, therefore, it is important to use care when handling and testing electronic components.
Emissions Control Information Label
The underhood Vehicle Emissions Control Information Label contains important emission specifications and setting procedures. In the upper left corner is the exhaust emission information. This identifies the year, the manufacturing division of the engine, the displacement of the engine in liters, the class of the vehicle, and type of fuel metering system. There is also an illustrated emission components and vacuum hose schematic.
This label is located in the engine compartment of every General Motors vehicle. If the label has been removed, it can be ordered from GM service parts operations (GMSPO).
Basic Knowledge Required
Note. Lack of basic knowledge of this powertrain when performing diagnostic procedures could result in incorrect diagnostic performance or damage to powertrain components. Do not attempt to diagnose a powertrain problem without this basic knowledge.
A basic understanding of hand tools is necessary in order to effectively use this section of the Service Manual.
You must be familiar with some of the basics of engine operation and electrical diagnosis in order to use this section of the service manual.
- Basic electrical circuits-You should have an understanding of basic electricity and know the meaning of voltage (volts), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). You should understand what happens in a circuit with an open or a shorted wire, and you should be able to identify a shorted or open circuit by using a DMM. You should be able to read and understand a wiring diagram.
- Use of digital multimeter-You should be familiar with the DMM, particularly the essential tool. You should be able to use the meter in order to measure the voltage (volts), the resistance (ohms), the current (amps), intermittents (min/max), and frequency (Hertz).
- Use of circuit testing tools-You should not use a test lamp to diagnose the engine controls system unless you are specifically instructed to do so. You should know how to the use jumper wires in order to test the components and allow the DMM readings without damaging the terminals. You should know how to use the J 35616 connector test adapter kit and use the kit whenever the diagnostic procedures call for front probing any connector.
Throttle Body Relearn Procedure
The engine control module (ECM) stores values that include the lowest possible throttle position (TP) sensor positions-0 percent, the rest positions-7 percent, and the return rate of both springs. These values will only be erased or overwritten if the ECM is reprogrammed or if a throttle body relearn procedure is performed. Observe, if the battery is disconnected, the ECM will immediately perform a throttle body relearn procedure when the ignition is turned ON.
A throttle body relearn procedure is performed anytime the ignition is turned ON, with the engine OFF for longer than 29 seconds when the following conditions have been met
- The engine speed is less than 40 RPM.
- The vehicle speed is 0 km/h (0 mph).
- The engine coolant temperature (ECT) is between 5-85°C (41-185°F).
- The intake air temperature (IAT) is more than 5-60°C (41-140°F).
- The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor angle is less than 14.9 percent.
- The ignition 1 voltage is more than 10 volts.
After 29 seconds, the ECM commands the throttle plate from the rest position to full closed, then to around 10 percent open. This procedure takes about 6-8 seconds. If any faults occur in the throttle actuator control (TAC) system, a DTC sets. At the start of this procedure, the scan tool TAC Learn Counter parameter should display 0, then count up to 11 after the procedure is completed. If the counter did not start at 0, or if the counter did not end at 11, a fault has occurred and a DTC should set.
TAC System Default Actions/Reduce Power Modes
There are 2 reduce power modes that the engine control module (ECM) can default to if an error is detected in the throttle actuator control (TAC) system. If an accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor 1 or APP sensor 2 circuit fault, throttle position (TP) sensor 2 circuit fault, or if a TP sensor 1 circuit fault is detected with some APP angle, the ECM goes into one of the 2 reduce power modes. In this mode, the engine torque is limited so that the vehicle cannot reach speeds of more than 100 km/h (60 mph). The ECM remains in this reduce power mode during the entire ignition cycle even if the fault is corrected.
If there is a condition with the throttle actuator control circuits, throttle actuator command vs actual position fault, return spring check fault, or a TP sensor 1 circuit fault, the ECM goes into the other reduce engine power mode. In this mode, the engine speed is limited to 2,500 RPM and the 3-6 fuel injectors are randomly turned OFF. At this time the Reduced Power indicator is commanded ON. The ECM remains in the reduce power mode during the entire ignition cycle even if the fault is corrected. Observe, if a TP sensor 1 or throttle actuator control circuit fault is present at the time the vehicle is at idle, with no accelerator pedal angle, the engine may stall.
Scheme 55
| Callout | Component Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Camshaft Actuator Vane |
| 2 | Timing Chain Sprocket |
| 3 | Engine Oil Pressure-For retarding the camshaft |
| 4 | Camshaft |
| 5 | Input Signals from Engine Sensors |
| 6 | Engine Control Module (ECM) |
| 7 | Camshaft Actuator Solenoid |
| 8 | Engine Oil Pump |
| 9 | Engine Oil Pressure Supply |
| 10 | Engine Oil Drain |
| 11 | Engine Oil Pressure-For advancing the camshaft |
| 12 | Camshaft Actuator Rotor |
| 13 | Camshaft Position Sensor Reluctor |
| 14 | Camshaft Actuator Lock Pin |
| 15 | Camshaft Actuator Housing |
The camshaft actuator system enables the engine control module (ECM) to change camshaft timing of all 4 camshafts while the engine is operating. The CMP actuator assembly (15) varies the camshaft position in response to directional changes in oil pressure. The CMP actuator solenoid valve controls the oil pressure that is applied to advance or retard a camshaft. Modifying camshaft timing under changing engine demand provides better balance between the following performance concerns
- Engine power output
- Fuel economy
- Lower tailpipe emissions
The CMP actuator solenoid valve (7) is controlled by the ECM. The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor and the CMP sensors are used to monitor changes in camshaft positions. The ECM uses the following information in order to calculate the desired camshaft positions
- The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
- The calculated engine oil temperature (EOT)
- The mass air flow (MAF) sensor
- The throttle position (TP) sensor
- The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
- The volumetric efficiency
Fuel Tank
The fuel storage tank is made of high density polyethylene. The fuel storage tank is held in place by 2 metal straps that are attached to the under body of the vehicle. The tank shape includes a sump in order to maintain a constant supply of fuel around the fuel pump strainer during low fuel conditions or during aggressive maneuvers.
The fuel tank also contains a fuel vapor vent valve with a roll-over protection. The vent valve also features a 2-phase vent calibration which increases the fuel vapor flow to the canister when the operating temperatures increase the tank pressure beyond an established threshold.
On-Board Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) System
The on-board refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system is an on-board vehicle system to recover fuel vapors during the vehicle refueling operation. The flow of liquid fuel down to the fuel tank filler neck provides a liquid seal. The purpose of ORVR is to prevent refueling vapor from exiting the fuel tank filler neck. The ORVR components are listed below, with a brief description of their operation
- The fuel tank-The fuel tank contains the modular fuel sender, the fuel limiter vent valve (FLVV), and 1 rollover valve.
- The fuel filler pipe-The fuel filler pipe carries fuel from the fuel nozzle to the fuel tank.
- The evaporative emission (EVAP) canister-The EVAP canister receives refueling vapor from the fuel system, stores the vapor, and releases the vapor to the engine upon demand.
- The vapor lines-The vapor lines transport fuel vapor from the tank assembly to the EVAP canister and engine.
- The check valve-The check valve limits fuel spit-back from the fuel tank during the refueling operation by allowing fuel flow only into the fuel tank. The check valve is located at the bottom of the fuel filler pipe.
- The modular fuel sender assembly-The modular fuel sender assembly pumps fuel to the engine from the fuel tank.
- The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor is located on top of the fuel tank vapor dome.
- The FLVV-The FLVV acts as a shut-off valve. The FLVV is located in the fuel tank. This valve has the following functions: Controlling the fuel tank fill level by closing the primary vent from the fuel tank Preventing fuel from exiting the fuel tank via the vapor line to the canister Providing fuel spillage protection in the event of a vehicle rollover by closing the vapor path from the tank to the engine
- The pressure vacuum relief valve-The pressure vacuum relief valve provides venting of excessive fuel tank pressure and vacuum. The valve is located in the fuel fill cap.
- The vapor recirculation line-The vapor recirculation line is used to transport vapor from the fuel tank to the top of the fill pipe during refueling to reduce vapor loading to the enhanced EVAP canister.
Fuel Tank Filler Pipe
In order to prevent refueling with leaded fuel, the fuel filler pipe has a built-in restrictor and a deflector. The opening in the restrictor will accept only the smaller unleaded gasoline fuel nozzle which must be fully inserted in order to bypass the deflector. The tank is vented during filling by an internal vent tube inside of the filler pipe.
Scheme 56
| Callout | Component Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fuel Tank Filler Cap |
| 2 | Fuel Tank Filler Pipe |
| 3 | Fuel Filler Door |
Note. Use a fuel tank filler pipe cap with the same features as the original when a replacement is necessary. Failure to use the correct fuel tank filler pipe cap can result in a serious malfunction of the fuel system.
The fuel tank filler pipe is equipped with a turn to vent screw on the type cap which incorporates a ratchet action in order to prevent over-tightening.
The turn to vent feature allows the fuel tank pressure relief prior to removal. Instructions for proper use are imprinted on the cap cover. A vacuum safety relief valve is incorporated into this cap.
Scheme 57
| Callout | Component Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Secondary Fuel Level Sensor - Left |
| 2 | Fuel Return Pipe from Engine |
| 3 | Fuel Feed Pipe to Engine |
| 4 | 2-Way Check Valve - Fuel Supply |
| 5 | Siphon Jet Pump |
| 6 | Primary Fuel Level Sensor - Right |
| 7 | Fuel Reservoir/Bucket |
| 8 | Fuel Pump |
| 9 | Fuel Strainer/Pick up |
| 10 | Return Fuel Check Valve for Reservoir |
| 11 | Return Fuel Jet Pump |
| 12 | Fuel Pressure Regulator |
| 13 | Fuel Transfer Line |
| 14 | Fuel Strainer/Pickup |
The modular fuel sender assembly mounts to the threaded opening of the plastic fuel tank with a seal and a retainer ring. The reservoir, containing the exterior inlet strainer, the electric fuel pump and the pump strainer, maintains contact with the tank bottom. This design provides
- Optimum fuel level in the integral fuel reservoir during all fuel tank levels and during driving conditions
- An improved tank fuel level measuring accuracy
- An improved coarse straining and added pump inlet filtering
- More extensive internal fuel pump isolation for noiseless operation
The modular fuel sender assembly maintains an optimum fuel level in the reservoir (bucket). The fuel entering the reservoir is drawn in by the following components
- The first stage of the fuel pump through the external strainer and/or
- The secondary umbrella valve or
- The return fuel line, whenever the level of fuel is below the top of the reservoir
Fuel Pump
The electric fuel pump is a turbine pump which is located inside of the modular fuel sender. The electric fuel pump operation is controlled by the engine control module (ECM) through the fuel pump relay.
Fuel Sender Strainers
The strainers act as a coarse filter to perform the following functions
- Filter contaminants
- Separate water from fuel
- Provide a wicking action that helps draw fuel into the fuel pump
Fuel stoppage at the strainer indicates that the fuel tank contains an abnormal amount of sediment or water. Therefore, the fuel tank will need to be removed and cleaned, and the filter strainer should be replaced.
Scheme 58
The fuel filter is located on the fuel feed pipe, between the fuel pump and the fuel rail. The electric fuel pump supplies fuel through the in-line fuel filter to the fuel injection system. The fuel pressure regulator keeps the fuel available to the fuel injectors at a regulated pressure. Unused fuel is returned from the fuel filter to the fuel tank by a separate fuel return pipe. The paper filter element (2) traps particles in the fuel that may damage the fuel injection system. The filter housing (1) is made to withstand maximum fuel system pressure, exposure to fuel additives, and changes in temperature. There is no service interval for fuel filter replacement. Replace a restricted fuel filter.
EVAP Lines and Hoses
The EVAP line extends from the fuel tank vent valve to the EVAP canister and into the engine compartment. The EVAP line is made of nylon and connects to the EVAP canister with a quick connect fitting.
Scheme 59
The fuel pressure regulator attaches to the fuel return pipe on the fuel sender assembly. The fuel pressure regulator is a diaphragm-operated relief valve. A software bias compensates the injector on-time because the fuel pressure regulator is not referenced to manifold vacuum. The injector pulse width varies with the signal from the mass air flow (MAF)/intake air temperature (IAT) sensor.
With the engine running at idle, the system fuel pressure at the pressure test connection should be between 380-410 kPa (55-60 psi). With the system pressurized and the pump OFF the pressure should stabilize and hold. If the pressure regulator supplies a fuel pressure which is too low or too high, a driveability condition will result.
Fuel Rail
The fuel rail consists of 3 parts
- The pipe that carries fuel to each injector
- The fuel pressure test port
- Six individual fuel injectors
The fuel rail is mounted on the intake manifold and distributes the fuel to each cylinder through the individual injectors.
Fuel Injectors
The fuel injector is a solenoid device that is controlled by the ECM. When the ECM energizes the injector coil, a normally closed ball valve opens, allowing the fuel to flow past a director plate to the injector outlet. The director plate has holes that control the fuel flow, generating a dual conical spray pattern of finely atomized fuel at the injector outlet. The fuel from the outlet is directed at both of the intake valves, causing the fuel to become further vaporized before entering the combustion chamber.
The fuel injectors will cause various driveability conditions if the following conditions occur
- If the injectors will not open
- If the injectors are stuck open
- If the injectors are leaking
- If the injectors have a low coil resistance
Fuel Pump Relay
The fuel pump relay allows the ECM to energize the fuel pump. The ECM enables the fuel pump whenever the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor pulses are detected.
Engine Fueling
The engine is fueled by six individual injectors, one for each cylinder, that are controlled by the ECM. The ECM controls each injector by energizing the injector coil for a brief period once every other engine revolution. The length of this brief period, or pulse, is carefully calculated by the ECM to deliver the correct amount of fuel for proper driveability and emissions control. The period of time when the injector is energized is called the pulse width and is measured in milliseconds, thousandths of a second.
While the engine is running, the ECM is constantly monitoring the inputs and recalculating the appropriate pulse width for each injector. The pulse width calculation is based on the injector flow rate, mass of fuel the energized injector will pass per unit of time, the desired air/fuel ratio, and actual air mass in each cylinder and is adjusted for battery voltage, short term, and long term fuel trim. The calculated pulse is timed to occur as each cylinders intake valves are closing to attain largest duration and most vaporization.
Fueling during a crank is slightly different than fueling during an engine run. As the engine begins to turn, a prime pulse may be injected to speed starting. As soon as the ECM can determine where in the firing order the engine is, the ECM begins pulsing the injectors. The pulse width during the crank is based on the coolant temperature and the engine load.
The fueling system has several automatic adjustments in order to compensate for the differences in the fuel system hardware, the driving conditions, the fuel used, and the vehicle aging. The basis for the fuel control is the pulse width calculation that is described above. Included in this calculation are an adjustment for the battery voltage, the short term fuel trim, and the long term fuel trim. The battery voltage adjustment is necessary since the changes in the voltage across the injector affect the injector flow rate. The short term and the long term fuel trims are fine and gross adjustments to the pulse width that are designed in order to maximize the driveability and emissions control. These fuel trims are based on the feedback from the oxygen sensors in the exhaust stream and are only used when the fuel control system is in a Closed Loop operation.
Under certain conditions, the fueling system will turn OFF the injectors for a period of time. This is referred to as fuel shut-off. Fuel shut-off is used in order to improve traction, save fuel, improve emissions, and protect the vehicle under certain extreme or abusive conditions.
In case of a major internal problem, the ECM may be able to use a back-up fuel strategy for limp in mode that will run the engine until service can be performed.
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
The ECM controls the fuel injectors based on information that the ECM receives from several information sensors. Each injector is fired individually in the engine firing order, which is called sequential fuel injection. This allows precise fuel metering to each cylinder and improves the driveability under all of the driving conditions.
The ECM has several operating modes for fuel control, depending on the information that has been received from the sensors.
Starting Mode
When the ECM detects reference pulses from the CKP sensor, the ECM will enable the fuel pump. The fuel pump runs and builds up pressure in the fuel system. The ECM then monitors the MAF, IAT, engine coolant temperature (ECT), and the throttle position (TP) sensor signal in order to determine the required injector pulse width for starting.
Clear Flood Mode
If the engine is flooded with fuel during starting and will not start, the Clear Flood Mode can be manually selected. To select Clear Flood Mode, push the accelerator to wide open throttle (WOT). With this signal, the ECM will completely turn OFF the injectors and will maintain this stage as long as the ECM indicates a WOT condition with engine speed below 1,000 RPM.
Run Mode
The Run Mode has 2 conditions: Open Loop operation and Closed Loop operation. When the engine is first started and the engine speed is above 480 RPM, the system goes into Open Loop operation. In Open Loop operation, the ECM ignores the signals from the oxygen sensors and calculates the required injector pulse width based primarily on inputs from the MAF, IAT and ECT sensors.
In Closed Loop, the ECM adjusts the calculated injector pulse width for each bank of injectors based on the signals from each oxygen sensor.
Acceleration Mode
The ECM monitors the changes in the TP and the MAF sensor signals in order to determine when the vehicle is being accelerated. The ECM will then increase the injector pulse width in order to provide more fuel for improved performance.
Deceleration Mode
The ECM monitors changes in TP and MAF sensor signals to determine when the vehicle is being decelerated. The ECM will then decrease injector pulse width or even shut OFF injectors for short periods to reduce exhaust emissions, and for better (engine braking) deceleration.
Battery Voltage Correction Mode
The ECM can compensate in order to maintain acceptable vehicle driveability when the ECM sees a low battery voltage condition. The ECM compensates by performing the following functions
- Increasing the injector pulse width in order to maintain the proper amount of fuel being delivered
- Increasing the idle speed to increase the generator output
Fuel Shut-Off Mode
The ECM has the ability to completely turn OFF all of the injectors or selectively turn OFF some of the injectors when certain conditions are met. These fuel shut-off modes allow the ECM to protect the engine from damage and also to improve the vehicles driveability.
The ECM will disable all of the six injectors under the following conditions
- Ignition OFF-Prevents engine run-on
- Ignition ON but no CKP signal-Prevents flooding or backfiring
- A high engine speed-Above the red line
- A high vehicle speed-Above the rated tire speed
- Closed throttle cast down-Reduces the emissions and increases engine braking.
The ECM will selectively disable the injectors under the following conditions
- The torque management enabled-Transmission shifts or abusive maneuvers.
- The traction control enabled-In conjunction with the front brakes applying
EVAP System Components
The EVAP system consists of the following components
EVAP Canister
The canister is filled with carbon pellets used to absorb and store fuel vapors. Fuel vapor is stored in the canister until the control module determines that the vapor can be consumed in the normal combustion process.
EVAP Purge Valve
The EVAP purge valve controls the flow of vapors from the EVAP system to the intake manifold. This normally closed valve is pulse width modulated (PWM) by the control module to precisely control the flow of fuel vapor to the engine. The valve will also be opened during some portions of the EVAP testing, allowing engine vacuum to enter the EVAP system.
EVAP Vent Valve
The EVAP vent valve controls fresh airflow into the EVAP canister. The valve is normally open. The control module will command the valve closed during some EVAP tests, allowing the system to be tested for leaks.
Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor
The FTP sensor measures the difference between the pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank and outside air pressure. The control module provides a 5-volt reference and a ground to the FTP sensor. The FTP sensor provides a signal voltage back to the control module that can vary between 0.1-4.9 volts. As FTP increases, FTP sensor voltage decreases, high pressure = low voltage. As FTP decreases, FTP voltage increases, low pressure or vacuum = high voltage.
EVAP Service Port
The EVAP service port is located in the EVAP purge pipe between the EVAP purge valve and the EVAP canister. The service port is identified by a green colored cap.
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor
The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor works in conjunction with a 58 tooth reluctor wheel on the crankshaft. The engine control module (ECM) monitors the voltage between the CKP sensor signal circuits. As each reluctor wheel tooth rotates past the sensor, the sensor creates an analog signal. This analog signal is processed by the ECM. The reluctor wheel teeth are 6 degrees apart. Having only 58 teeth leaves a 12 degree span that is uncut. This creates a signature pattern that enables the ECM to determine the CKP. The ECM can determine which pair of cylinders is approaching top dead center based on the CKP signal alone. The camshaft position (CMP) sensor signals are used in order to determine which of these 2 cylinders is on a firing stroke, and which is on the exhaust stroke. The ECM uses this to properly synchronize the ignition system, the fuel injectors, and the knock control. This sensor is also used in order to detect misfire.
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
This engine uses 4 camshaft position (CMP) sensors, one for each camshaft. The CMP sensor signals are a digital ON/OFF pulse, output 4 times per revolution of the camshaft. The CMP sensor does not directly affect the operation of the ignition system. The CMP sensor information is used by the engine control module (ECM) to determine the position of the 4 camshafts relative to the crankshaft position. By monitoring the CMP and crankshaft position (CKP) signals the ECM can accurately time the operation of the fuel injectors. The ECM supplies the CMP sensor with a 5-volt reference circuit and a low reference circuit. The CMP sensor signals are an input to the ECM. These signals are also used to detect camshaft alignment with the crankshaft.
Ignition Coils
Each ignition coil contains a solid state driver module as its primary element. The engine control module (ECM) signals the coil driver to initiate a firing event by applying ignition control (IC) circuit current for the appropriate time, or dwell. When the current is removed the coil fires the spark plug. The ignition coils use the following circuits
- An ignition 1 voltage supply circuit
- An IC circuit
- Two ground circuits
Engine Control Module (ECM)
The engine control module (ECM) controls all ignition system functions, and constantly corrects the spark timing. The ECM monitors information from various sensor inputs that include the following components
- The throttle position (TP) sensor
- The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
- The mass air flow (MAF) sensor
- The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor
- The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
- The transmission gear position or range information sensors
- The engine knock sensors (KS)
- Ambient pressure sensor (BARO)