I have a 1999 s80 2.9 l nonturbo. I have 2 problems. First is a long crank before start. If you turn the key on it will crank for a while with no start. If you crank aproximately 5 times, turn key to off and crank a second time it will start on 5th time. So this goes turn key on and hold. Crank,crank,crank,crank,crank. Turn key off and right back on crank,crank crank,crank, start. Rpm goes to around 1700 and then back to 700 and idles nicely. No message lights. I have tried new battery, new starter, used alternator thinking of the voltage regulator, new CPS. Oh and I have put in a different fuel pump.I think it coincided with putting a used Tranny in. Any ideas are most appreciated. The second problem I have is the Rpm have begun to drop at around 2000 rpm posibly between 3rd and 4th gear. It is an automatic with the GM tranny. Has been running fine since the used tranny was put in except for long crank on start. The other thing I notice is the Rpm at 70 MPH used to be right at 2300 RPM. Now after the slipping it is 70 MPH at 2500RPM. The slipping seams to happen after the engine is hot. Can barley feel anything going on just see the RPM needle jumping. So is this my second tranny going? Is it just a matter of time or is it something silly. Any input is needed. I have scoured the archives but not really found my exact problem. Thanks, Ron

 

well, I can tell you my car has been in the shop for over a week getting a new tranny because it had the same problems yours seems to be having. slipping while overheating, rpm spikes, seems like it can't find what gear it's supposed to be in. only after you drive on it for a while though. damn GM!

i don't know if that's the case with yours, but you should have them look at the clutch. i feel for ya.

 

Long crank time could be 2 things.
1. Poor ground connection between the engine and tranny.
2. Engine speed sensor wiring needs to be rerouted away from the starter power wire.

Yes the tranny may be going.