Wont start when it rains ???

[yzf125]

Hi guys, I have a 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 2WD with a 4.3, This problem just started after the winter thaw.

If I try to start it after it rains it just turns over and catches every so often but never starts. I have to let it sit for a day or so after it rains and it will start and run fine ?

Here is what I have checked or replaced, I replaced the coil, pulled the cap and rotor and cleaned them up, has new wires and plugs not to long ago, replaced coolant sensor, I am just baffled with this !! anyone have any experience with this problem ? I believe its electrical because I put some starting fluid down the throttle body and got no results.

Thanks for any help.

 

[zora]

have you tried spraying the engine with a water hose and seeing if you can duplicate the problem? Spray one area at a time till it wont start, then look for a short. In the dark you may be able to see it arching.

 

[yzf125]

Ok I just used a spray bottle with water and started with the coil and bam ! I heard it ark and the motor started to die, I shut it off and it wouldnt start !

So I quickly reproduced the problem and found it to be water getting down inside the coil wire at the coil, seems like the wire isnt sealed around the boot, they are cheaper wires. I am going to just replace all the wires with AC Delco wires, doesnt pay to buy the cheap stuff I guess !!

 

[zora]

Excellant, glad you found it that quickly and yes sometimes AC Delco is the way to go.

 

[Chuzz]

FYI, you can always use a little bit of the spark plug grease to install your wires. Not only does it help put them on easier, it provides a seal too. Make sure you get that coil wire fully seated when you replace it, then push the boot down on the coil as far as you can.