Can't get rid of code 54 and SMEC Question

[celblazer]

I went to start the lebaron up the other day and it started but ran like crap. Idle swinging and the stalled. Checked codes got 12, 54, 55 I had the battery disconnected a week before for a new flex plate. So I know that's the code 12. Was running fine afterwards drove it for a couple of days. I had checked and set the timing the day before and it started and ran great.

I replaced the HEP today and still getting the same problem and code 54. Also imediately after the 55 code the Check Engine light flashes rapidly and randomly could the SMEC be bad? I did do some cleaning under the hood the day before this problem happend and I'm thinking maybe I got water in the SMEC

I've checked all wiring and grounds. Pulled the plugs they are all black. Have new cap, rotor and wires.

Any help would be great.

Thanks,
Bernie

I have the same problem. I have a 86 Laser that I have just put together from two cars. Everything seams to be working, but the car will not quite start. It sputters for a few seconds and dies. I also replaced the pickup coil, cap, rotor, and wires. Any help would be appreciated.

[celblazer]

My Problem ended up being the SMEC. Replaced it and the car is running great.

I was pretty sure that I ruled that out, I swapped the SMEC with my 87 and there wasn't any difference. I will try again and try this one in the 87. Both the SMEC & LM are from junk yard donors. The SMEC is from an 88, is there a compatability problem?

I'll let you know the results after the rain stops, Thanks.

[glhsken]

Quote:

Originally posted by 87Pacifica I was pretty sure that I ruled that out, I swapped the SMEC with my 87 and there wasn't any difference. I will try again and try this one in the 87. Both the SMEC & LM are from junk yard donors. The SMEC is from an 88, is there a compatability problem? I'll let you know the results after the rain stops, Thanks.

Is your car SMEC or LM controlled ??? You can't swap a smec into an 87 car unless it has been converted to smec

I guess I don't know exactly what I am talking about. Please enlighten me. The "Power module" in the 87 appears to be the same as the 86. they both have 2 connectors, 10 & 12? pin, that just press in. On the later model cars I've seen them w/ single bolt in connectors. Are these the SMEC modules? If so no I don't have a SMEC controled car.
I opened up the "Power module" from the donor car, and it appears that I am not the first. The unit was no longer sealed to the case & half the sealant was gone. Its has to be bad.

[glhsken]

Quote:

On the later model cars I've seen them w/ single bolt in connectors. Are these the SMEC modules? If so no I don't have a SMEC controled car.

Yes and o.k.

There will be a connector right near the battery (looks JUST like the 2 for the hep) Check that out.. it often comes loose.

Checked that one, It's ok.

Power module is good! It's in the 87 and running fine.

The Problem is solved. Even though my car is titled as an 1986, it is actually a 1985. The 86 ECU will not work with the 85 distributor. I swapped in the distributor from my 87 and it runs fine now.

Thanks for help!