89 Galant - Opinions Needed

you can read the error code on this car with an analog volt/ohm meter (some use a buzzer) the stored error codes will be in long-short sweeps of the needle. i'd check the computer itself: older mitsu's have problems with leaking electrolytic capacitors. the electrolyte eats the traces on the board causing all kinds of problems in older cars. the caps are small cylinder shaped components and when they leak the residue is visable at thier base.

the starter solenoid sounds like its having a mind of its own. check the battery terminals and cable also. the coolant leak can be fixed as well as the overheating with a new thermostat & gasket, make sure you put silicone adhesive on the gasket. for the oil burning, drop a bottle of Rislone Ring Seal, and switch to high mileage oil. (it won't hurt). have the battery checked out, check the water level also. check to see if the alternator is putting out enough juice. An Autozone or kragen can do these tests for free.

definetely diagnost the check engine light. oxygen sensor should be replaced every 60k.

thank you for your reply. i spoke with the shop earlier today, and they informed me that they believe my distrubtor has gone bad, so last i heard they were trying to put a new one on it and see if it would work. :sigh: i just want my car, lol.

i guess i'll find out tomorrow whether or not it works. if it turns out to be something that's several hundred dollars to fix, i'll probably just say forget about it. i'm already looking for a new car right now, so we'll see.

but, i really wish i could get my car fixed! :)

thank you again for all of your reponses!

-- Joshua

"i spoke with the shop earlier today, and they informed me that they believe my distrubtor has gone bad"

what motor do you have in this car?

it is a 2.0L SOHC 4G63 i4 engine w/ a rebuilt tranny.

-- jshdude

Update: Tried replacing the ECU with a used one. Ran, then died about 100 feet from my apartment. Tried replacing the ignition coil with a used one. Still no good.

Replaced capacitors on original ECU (as recommended) with brand new ones today. Reinstalled original ECU. Yet again, nothing. Cranks, but no start.

Now I am beyond frustration. I am simply puzzled. I think my next step--besides finding a new car--will be to buy a voltimeter and just spend a day tracing all the wiring that's responsible for iginition.

Any suggestions/thoughts?

-- Josh