Chevy & GMC Vans

Just picked up a 2003 astro awd. Very excited. Found some issues that I am already working towards. Was driving ok until today when it randomly died while driving. Now it turns over, but after about three cranks, the starter drive seems to stop extending. But will still spin. Obviously seems like a starter. But why would this cause the engine to die while driving?

Hi,

Could be loose +12 VDC wires from battery to starter, and maybe bad Ground wires.
Also, make sure battery cable is snug and not corroded. It should be GM side post battery which uses 5/16 inch hex wrench to snug. Battery should be 12,6 v and 14.3 v when alternator is charging. Then put a load on it by running blower motor, radio, and headlights and see if alternator still puts out close to 14 VDC.
Also, could be intermitantly a bad 12 volt wire to ignition coil.

AP

Yes those are my first steps this am. Thinking maybe it ran out of electricity while driving in essence.
Charged the battery overnight. I'll put a meter to things today

You might want to check your fuel pressure. When my fuel pump quit the engine died of course. When trying to restart the starter did just as you stated.
Good luck and welcome

Captn. Crunch wrote:You might want to check your fuel pressure. When my fuel pump quit the engine died of course. When trying to restart the starter did just as you stated.
Good luck and welcome

Exactly what happened. New starter and fuel pump. Changed trans fluid and filter as well. And cranked the torsion bars a bit. Back is gutted as well. Happy van now