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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET1983CAMARO BASE, 5.0 H, AUTOMATICREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)ENGINE PERFORMANCEIGNITION SYSTEMIGNITION SYSTEM - V6TESTINGESC PERFORMANCE CHECK
1983 Chevrolet Camaro Base, 5.0 H, Automatic

ESC Performance Check

1983 Chevrolet Camaro Base, 5.0 H, AutomaticSECTION ESC Performance Check
NOTE: Perform these checks only after checking other causes of engine detonation, such as ignition timing, MAP, lack of EGR, or engine temperature.
  1. Connect tachometer to engine and run at fast idle speed (about 1500 RPM). Place shift lever in "P" (auto. trans.) or Neutral (man. trans.). With engine at normal operating temperature, tap engine block in area of detonation sensor. If engine RPM drops, system is operating properly.
  2. If RPM did not drop, disconnect ESC controller and check for RPM change. If no change in RPM, proceed to step 5. If RPM drops, run engine at 2000 RPM. Connect a digital voltmeter between ESC harness connector terminals "E" and "D". On the A.C. scale, reading should not be higher than .08-volts.
  3. If voltage reading is correct, problem is a faulty ESC connection or ESC controller. If voltage is not correct, check for an open in wire from ESC controller connector terminal "D" to ground.
  4. Repair if an open is found. If no open is found, check for an open or a poor connection between detonation sensor and ESC controller connector terminal "E". If circuit is okay, replace the detonation sensor.
  5. If no change in RPM in step 2, note "CHECK ENGINE" light. If light is on, problem is most likely a faulty ESC controller, but also check detonation sensor. If light is off, turn ignition switch "ON" (engine not running) and check voltage from ground to ESC terminal "C".
  6. If voltage is under 2-volts, replace ECM. If voltage is over 2-volts, repair short in wire from ESC terminal "C" to ECM terminal "L".
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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.