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1994 Olds 98 sputtering

Sent to Car Experts August 09, 2005 2:14 p.m.

My Olds 98 recently began to sputter, especially while accelerating. Sputter may not be the exact description - it's more like frequent hesitation or jerkiness while driving. When I turn off the AC, the problem disappears. I had a dead battery a couple of mornings so I thought the alternator was bad. I had it checked at Autozone and they said the Amp output was very low, and concurred that the alternator needed replacement. I replaced it with a new (not rebuilt) alternator, but the problem persists. Can anyone help identiy this problem? The AC works fine when it's turned on, but I hesitate to use it for fear that it's draining the battery. I haven't had any battery issues while the AC remains off. Please help if possible.

Thanks,

Scott

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $30

Answer
August 09, 2005 6:23 p.m. (4 hours and 8 minutes later)

REPLIED

Ok, first thing. You had to have bought a reman alternator. I haven't seen an aftermarket new one in years.

Your problem sounds more like an ignition misfire. I would take a hard look at the plug wires and plugs.

Hammer Time -- L1 Master Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2710 Car Accepts
ASE Mastertech with Adv level Engine performance cert.

Reply to Hammer Time
Sent August 09, 2005 6:36 p.m. (13 minutes and 12 seconds later)

It was not a remanufactured alternator per Autozone. It came with a lifetime guarantee. They offer only a 1 yr. guarantee on remans.

Why would ignition misfire only occur when AC is off? It runs smoothly and accelerates normally when AC is off. Sputtering occurs only while AC is on.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Answer
August 09, 2005 7:50 p.m. (1 hour and 13 minutes later)

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Hammer Time -- L1 Master Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2710 Car Accepts
ASE Mastertech with Adv level Engine performance cert.

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