Here's the deal, I need help. I'm no expert, and would love to tap some of
> the brilliant chevy gearheads here.
>
> First, the problems with my Lumina (191k miles, but strong as an ox) started
> with the alternator dying. I replaced that (2x actually, as the trouble code
> indicated that it was overcharging). I read a bulletin at the NAPA store
> that said something about having to replace the battery also, due to a dead
> cell and a design flaw that remanufacturers were not able to address when
> remanning the alternators. New battery. Car runs like crap. Haynes manual
> says to look at grounds, as poor current flow causes the injectors to act
> goofy. When running like crap, car runs very rich...can smell the unburnt
> fuel in the exhaust. I took out the cat, and put in a straight pipe. Old one
> was broken up, and loaded with carbon. Replaced O2 sensor, plugs, (wires are
> fairly new), new neg battery cable, and engine to body ground strap. Still
> get a 53 trouble code (overcharge). Turn off ignition, on for 5 secs, off
> for 10, 'puter resets, starts fine, then runs like crap again. Am I missing
> a ground somewhere, or should I be looking at the oil-soaked positive cable
> to the alternator (clean?). When this vehicle, although a beater, runs well,
> it really runs well. When it runs like crap, I am dangerous, because I drive
> mostly in town, and it spits, sputters, and then dies. Any input is welcome
> and appreciated in advance.
>_______________________
Check the voltage at the battery when its running. It should be right about
- Try and check it when the car does its running bad thing. If it is over