96 Prostar 350 TBI black smoke

[Mark rsa2au]

My temp sensor did not trigger a code! Follow the paper clip method but don't be surprised if there are no codes.

[chrislandy]

Mark,
Before installing the sensor I tried the paperclip trick but my check engine light didn't flash anything at all, not even the code 12? I'm guessing that the light is not even hooked up for some reason. I have a "check engine" and "transmission temp" light on my dash. Are these supposed to light up at any time during start-up like in a car?

I had this problem last month, the check engine light should come one when you turn the ignition on, just like your car, then go off when started.

Mine never came on as in never for the last 10/12 yrs I've had it, it turns out it was never connected!

There was a stray wire (brown-purple I think) in at the rear of the engine not connected to anything. Plus there is a white 2 pin connector floating around in the same region which on mine had both bungs in the socket side i.e. blanking it off. I compared it to a 97 ProStar with the same engine and that spare wire was connected to the plug. I did a few checks with a multi-meter and a test light then plugged the wire into the matching pin and like magic the check light works - finally got some fault codes out of it

Chris

[MC205]

I had this problem last month, the check engine light should come one when you turn the ignition on, just like your car, then go off when started.

Mine never came on as in never for the last 10/12 yrs I've had it, it turns out it was never connected!

There was a stray wire (brown-purple I think) in at the rear of the engine not connected to anything. Plus there is a white 2 pin connector floating around in the same region which on mine had both bungs in the socket side i.e. blanking it off. I compared it to a 97 ProStar with the same engine and that spare wire was connected to the plug. I did a few checks with a multi-meter and a test light then plugged the wire into the matching pin and like magic the check light works - finally got some fault codes out of it

Chris

Thanks for the info. Will look around more next weekend.

[LaramiePS190]

Anyone have a part number for the engine temp sensor? For the minimal cost I'd make a trip to Napa and replace this sensor.

Timing was re-checked after this summer's cap, rotor, and plug replacement. Thermostat is opening.

The engine smells as if it's running rich. A bit of smoke on start up. Full to empty fuel cell seems to be occurring faster than years past.

Otherwise the boat starts every time, idles smooth, solid acceleration, and 44 MPH top speed if needed for footin'