Power Balance Test

[Lee Ann]

Hi Again!

Just looking ahead to my next project (after my fuel filter replacement)…I want to run a power balance test on my 1997 Saturn SC2 which has the distributorless ignition system (a single coil pack per two spark wires/plugs). I watched the video yesterday which described in great detail how to run the test on the COP (coil on plug, one coil per plug) ignition design. Eric gave me some idea about how to run it on my system but for safety sake, how (in more detail) would this be done?

Thanks.
I had planned to include pics. will include in edit.

Topic

[college man]

Unplug each injector.

[Lee Ann]

ok, it’s that simple? Safety concerns I should be wary of?
I was under the impression I would be working at the coil tower.
Thanks, again.

[Lee Ann]

[quote=”college man” post=92112]Unplug each injector.[/quote]

Hey college man,

I just thought of another question related to this post (performing a power balance test):

Say I unplug each injector and they check out fine, would I then back track to the coils?

Backround: Before I began my performance checks and fixes, I had a CEL (for 02 sensor-upstream, crankshaft position sensor, coolant level sensor and multiple random miss). Replaced the 02 sensor, upper radiator hose, upper motor mount, plugs, wires, air filter which turned the CEL off. I still have a vac leak that I have been unable to isolate using the traditional method (spraying carb cleaner on a cool engine at the connections of the air tube, throttle body, intake manifold, PCV etc.). I have also purged the coolant system of air.

[college man]

If you unplug each injector and rpms drop as they should. Then
check spark with a tester at each plug.

[Lee Ann]

Got it.
Thanks so much!

[college man]

[quote=”lar1969″ post=92137]Got it.
Thanks so much![/quote]

keep us posted on your progress. 🙂

[Lee Ann]

Will do!

FYI-I wrote an update as to my coolant system progress a couple days ago (Thursday or Friday). Check it out 🙂 thanks.

[EricTheCarGuy]

Yes, disabling the injectors one at a time will do the very same thing. If you find a cylinder that has no RPM drop, then you’ve found the problem cylinder. You don’t need to worry about going back and doing the same test again with the ignition.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[Author]

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