GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

INTERMITTENT EXHAUST SULFUR ODOR

MODELS AFFECTED: SOME 1986 AND EARLY BUILT 1987 SKYLARKS, SOMERSETS, CENTURYS, LESABRES, ELECTRAS, RIVIERAS AND TURBO REGALS EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L OR 3.8L ENGINES (VIN CODES L,3,B AND 7)

Some 1986 and early built 1987 models equipped with 3.0L or 3.8L engines and built prior to certain Vehicle Identification Number break points, may exhibit an occasional condition of a sulfur smell from the exhaust. This condition is more prevalent in city traffic or upon coming to a stop, and does not appear to affect fuel economy, driveability or emissions; however, in some cases, it may be a customer annoyance.

While high sulfur content fuels and rich air/fuel ratios both contribute to this condition, it may also be caused by a catalytic converter with reduced nickel levels in the base metal.

If this condition is experienced and cannot be repaired using currently published diagnostic and service information, it may be necessary to replace the catalytic converter with one of the applicable part numbers listed below.

Vehicles Involved

Certain 1986 and early built 1987 vehicles within the following serial numbers:

1986 & 1987 Models Model Thru VIN Number Service Part Number ----- --------------- ------------------- 3.0L Somersets & Skylarks HM046427 25103328 3.0L LeSabres 1986 Only 25103335 3.8L Centurys HD426627 25103333 HT442206 25103333 H6404804 25103333 3.8L Turbo Regals HP420192 25103338 3.8L Electras/Park Avenues H1422870 25103335 3.8L LeSabres HH300140 25103335 3.8L Rivieras HU404222 25103335

Warranty Information

Labor Operation: T5141 Labor Hours: Use applicable time in Labor Time Guide Trouble Code: 92

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.