That'* a distinct possiblility. ICM, ECM, or crank sensor. I'm betting sensor first.

now looking over my post i meant ICM

My 90 sse did the same thing.
After two days of diagnosing it was the crank sensor.

Sorry reply took so long. It turned out to be the ICM. It is a common problem i guess with the 3800. I went to a local car wrecker, told him my problem and before i even finished telling him he handed me a icm and said here is your problem put it on in10min hit the key and vroom.

Sorenson ICMs from Advance Auto seem the least expensive at retail right now. My advice is to go back to that same yard and see if they have the later three coil ignition system (will need the whole assembly) for a 3800 as it seems to have a bit hotter spark and should be a bolt in upgrade. (Have heard that after 1995 they changed the mounting bolt pattern, have not confirmed)

Then invest in a set of AC RapidFire #14 plugs, gap to .060", and keep the original Magnavox for a spare (I keep one in the trunk).

How much of a difference does the type 2 ignition system make? and what is it worth new, and at a wreckers?

With Magnavox I used Rapidfire #3 plugs gapped at .045". With the Delco I use #14s at .060" and find the idle smoother.

I have paid between $25 and $40 for complete Delco ignitions (coil, module, and plate). Some want more but there are lots around, cars of 1992-1995 are peaking in yards right now.

I do not drive my cars hard enough to really notice any difference but just do not care for the Magnavox and spares are liable to dry up soon. Delco will be around for a while and being able to replace just one coil is nice.

92-95'* [early 92'* have the magnavox style, but you know the differene, right?], well they will bolt right up to our stock mounting bracket, the 96-04'* I am not sure if they will need their bracket, or if they just flat out won't bolt up.. Someone else may be able to confirm this.. also an LG3 delco style won't work. wires are different I believe.


-justin