89 C1500 Erratic Idle, Loss Of Power

bossier62guy · July 12, 2008

My dad has an 89 C1500 w/ the 5.7L engine w/ approximately 118K on the odometer. Recently he's experienced an erractic idle (cold or warm) and loss of power. I had him check the ECM and sure enough it has a code 44 fault. He lives about 250 miles away and I'm heading that way in a few days to see if I can get him back up and running. Since it does it in the open loop mode I don't see it being an 02 sensor....any common fault areas or suggestions would be appreciated?

pennzoil29 · July 13, 2008

This could be caused by a number of things. According to the Haynes Manual it could be; 1. vacuum leaks

2. Leaking EGR or plugged PCV

3.Clogged air filter

4.fuel pump

5.leaking head gasket

6.timing chain worn

7.camshaft lobes worn

8.valve clearance out of adjustment, or burnt or leaking

9.timing out of adjustment

10.Dirty or clogged injectors

I hope this gives you an idea of what you could be looking for. Good luck.

bossier62guy · July 21, 2008

My dad has an 89 C1500 w/ the 5.7L engine w/ approximately 118K on the odometer. Recently he's experienced an erractic idle (cold or warm) and loss of power. I had him check the ECM and sure enough it has a code 44 fault. He lives about 250 miles away and I'm heading that way in a few days to see if I can get him back up and running. Since it does it in the open loop mode I don't see it being an 02 sensor....any common fault areas or suggestions would be appreciated?

Truck is fixed....thanks for all the suggestions....not!

pennzoil29 · July 21, 2008

So, what was the problem with the truck? Glad to hear you got it fixed.

bossier62guy · July 21, 2008

So, what was the problem with the truck? Glad to hear you got it fixed.

I appreciate your efforts....the problem was low fuel pressure caused by a 2" piece of fuel line that connects the hard line to the pump on the fuel pump assembly....it had a nice split in it. Pulled the pump, replaced that piece of hose and it's back running like normal. Thanks again.

pennzoil29 · July 21, 2008

So, what was the problem with the truck? Glad to hear you got it fixed.

I appreciate your efforts....the problem was low fuel pressure caused by a 2" piece of fuel line that connects the hard line to the pump on the fuel pump assembly....it had a nice split in it. Pulled the pump, replaced that piece of hose and it's back running like normal. Thanks again.

No problem. I'm just glad you got her back on the road.