Hello all,

I recently purchased a 2002 Lightning which I am guessing is bone stock. I have read throughout this forum about the problem of losing traction when hitting it from a stand still. This truck will not come close to even barking the tires from a stand still. Is this a "stock" thing or maybe something else? Possibly the previous owner replaced the rear end with taller gears (which I am about to check).
Just wondering if this is the norm.

Thanks for your help,
Jeremy

 

Start with the basics,Change the plugs. fuel filter, clean the MAF, the IAC, check the TPS .(99V), new air filter.

 

I truly believe there are factory duds out there. I remember a few people here and there complaining about this here over the years. I've had three Gen II's and test driven many and my first L, a 2000 was a total dud. It also would not break loose the tires from a stand still full throttle mash. I turned down a 2004 Sonic Blue with only 11,000 miles to replace my totaled 03 Sonic Blue based on the fact that the motor felt way too weak and drove home in a color I didn't want, but got one that felt normal (mash the gas from a stop, and roast the tires).

Also, if it's really hot and humid (where the L will be down on power), and you're on brand new asphalt that's sticky with fresh tar, you *might* have problems breaking the tires loose because under those conditions, you gotta also remember, the stock tires are no junkers. They're nearly 10 inch wide premium performance tires made for traction. But from a dead stop I say any normal running stock L should be able to break the tires loose regardless the conditions.

 

Roll into the trottle instead of "stomping it" and it will be a different story.

 

You may also want to clean the intercooler.

 

stab it 1/2 way instead of the floor,that almost seems to flood it

 

Thanks for all of the input. Here in Lower Alabama, it is almost never cooler than 94 or so this time of the year. I am hoping this is just not a weak motor. I will do all of the above advised and see if it helps. The truck does run strong just seems like it needs a "stall" or something installed to help on the low end.

Thanks again for all of the help,
Jeremy

 

Remember hot weather kills lightnings also did you leave the T off of lightning in you forum name for a reason. thanks and good luck. LIGHTNING FAST

 

Change the diff fluid. I heard people doing one wheels peels, then changing the diff fluid, seems to help. It's worth a shot.

 

Mine has never had a problem with turning the tires from a dead stop if that is my intent. However, I've noticed that from a slow roll of 5 to 10 mph they break lose much easier when I nail the pedal. I assume it has something to do with weight transfer. From a dead stop the front will rise and help plant the rear a little better. From a slow roll, I guess the front doesn't rise as much and it doesn't seem to transfer as well and hook up???

 

Power brake it w/o wheel spin, that creates more immediate boost, then floor it as you side step the brake at the same time. This equals instant tire smoke for me...

 

Also check to make sure the intercooler pump is running, if it isn't that will kill your power.

With the engine running see if the coolant in the intercooler resevour is circulating.

 

There doesn't seem to be any circulation in the intercooler resevour. Does it circulate at all times (guessing it should)? The truck still runs strong on the other end (say 30mph and up). Could this be the problem at the low end?

Thanks,
Jeremy

 

Jeremy
It does take 10-20 seconds for the intercooler pump to first turn on. If it isn't running that will really bog down the engine. You will be sucking hot air into the engine.

Open the hood there is a fuse box by your brake booster, open it up and check fuse 106
2nd from the front of the vehical closest to you, if your standing on the drivers side.

it is a 20 amp maxi fuse.

Also stick your head under the front bumpewr, and make sure the electrical conection is plugged in


If your pump isn't working, and then you get it working, you will think you picked up 50 hp

 

Don,

I think you hit the nail on the head. I have 14vdc on the plug to the intercooler pump however the pump is not working. I will pick up a pump tomorrow and install. Hopefully this will make a the truck stronger on the bottom end.

Thank you and thanks to all who replied.
Jeremy