Lost All Engine Power

by TL Carder
(Bedford, NH USA)

1989 Corvette Coupe, well maintained, with 78k original miles. Going down the road the engine suddenly lost all power. Pulled to the roadside and found that the engine would not respond to any throttle at all and was running very, very rough. In fact, opening the throttle at all would make it run even worse. The engine finally stalled out completely. Upon attempted re-start, it would fire only very briefly and would not start or run. If left for several minutes, engine would fire right up and run normally for about four or five seconds, then abruptly return to the previously stated condition. I can hear the fuel pump turn on, run, and shut down after pressurizing the fuel delivery system as per normal. The fuel filter is new and was replaced approx 1500 miles ago. The fuel pressure was measured at the fuel rail at that time and was well within spec. The air filter is a K&N and is properly maintained. The entire intake plenum and tract up to the throttle body assembly is undamaged and correct. Car was running strong and there was no indication of trouble of any kind prior to the 'event'.

Chris Trautman @ Corvette Assembly Plant 2019

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