Kenneth 1948

My daughter's '86 Sentra runs great around town but on a longer trip at interstate speeds it will slow down, lose power and stop running. It will not re-start until it has cooled down. The cooling system is in good condition, it is not overheating.

When it stops there is no spark.

One person contacted me from the board and told me to check the "ignition module" in the distributor. The only part I find listed for this car is an ignition module or "igniter" but this is for CA models only and I'm in NC.
There is also a "power transistor" mounted next to the coil. This is not really exposed to engine heat. Is this part subject to intermittent failure on an older car?

It is difficult to trouble shoot an intermittent electrical problem. I would appreciate any input or advice from anyone familiar with this engine.

Thanks, John aka Kenneth

rfmaniac

I had an 87 Pulsar which had the ca16de engine in it. I experienced the exact problem you described. It cost me about 300 bucks for a new power transistor unit, but it fixed the problem. once the transistor unit heated up( in florida it doesn't take long at all) the car stopped. had to wait about 15 minutes then i could go another 5 miles and it would stop again. Best of luck on your endeavors.

bob89sentra

You have the E16s engine which does not have an ignition module (it is only on CA series engines)
Sounds like the spark coil is going out, get a new one and it should fix your problem.

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89 Sentra owner 9 years 205,000 miles and counting!