2000 Chevy Astro Changed distributor cap & now misfire

2000 CHEVROLET ASTRO
90,000 MILES • 6 CYL • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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This van failed to start on a couple of occasions.

Parking it in garage and it started and ran like a champ.

Changed the distributor cap and it began to miss.

Engine code P0301 said misfire of #1 cyl.

Replaced plug wire to #1 but this didn't solve problem.

Doesn't seem to miss when floor the gas pedal - worst when light pedal.
Mar 11, 2010 at 9:46 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Did you replace the plugs or only the cap and one wire? Was the rotor replaced?
Mar 11, 2010 at 10:27 PM
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rotor was replaced but not plugs. less than 15,000 mi on new plugs.

one new wire was replaced to #1 cyl
Mar 12, 2010 at 8:41 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Recheck your work to make sure the wire and plug is good. Check the electrode on the plug to make sure dirt or something isn't causing it not to fire. Also, using a noid light, make sure the injector is working.
Mar 12, 2010 at 10:05 AM
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Finished replacing all ign. wires with new.

The new distributer's internal electrodes are just metal plated plastic & plating already peeling off. I asked for a good one !!

Checked #1 cyl plug & its good.

What is a "noid" light? Where'd a guy get one or do ya make one? How connected to injector.
Mar 12, 2010 at 10:49 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The noid light plugs right into the injector wiring. Most parts stores will sell, lend or rent one to you.
Mar 12, 2010 at 11:22 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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A noid light plugs into the injector wiring. If the circuit is working, the light will pulse. Most parts stores will lend or rent one to you. They are cheap.
Mar 12, 2010 at 11:56 AM
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Jacob,

I changed out all of the plug wires and replaced the new distributor cap with the old one and away she ran. I had purchased a new NAPA cap - better one- and got the misfire.

These caps have metal coated plastic electrodes. I ordered and installed an Accel unit from Summit Racing and now I'm humming down the road.

Thanks for the help.

Dave

updated 3/23/2010
Well, my problem is back. Originally "Astro won't start after changing distributor."

I have changed distributor cap, rotor, wires, #1 plug.
I left the vehicle outside yesterday & last night - rainy and mid 30's last night.
This morning wouldn't start. Shot of ether to intake -no start as before.
Is it temperature related or moisture related?

Dave
Mar 17, 2010 at 2:17 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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That is good news. It is hard to believe how cheaply they make things today, but I'm glad you got it going. WHen a new part is replaced, one would like to believe it is good. No such luck.

Take care and thanks for using 2carpros.com.

Joe
Mar 17, 2010 at 3:30 PM
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Mike/Joe

I forgot to mention that there is no check engine light/ error codes.

Also the weather cleared up and the sun came out and this afternoon it fired up and runs like a top.

Dave
Mar 24, 2010 at 9:23 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I thought it was fixed. Are you still having the same problems?
Mar 24, 2010 at 10:46 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I thought it was fixed. Are you still having the same problems?
Mar 24, 2010 at 10:49 PM