Starting System - Hard Start/Extended Crank Time

SOURCE: Kia Technician Times

TITLE: Hard Start - New A/T Flexplate

APPLIES TO: 98-00 Sephia

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We previously mentioned that a more rigid A/T flexplate was being developed to correct extended crank and starter stall problems. Since then, we have been informed by the factory that the new flexplate has gone into production effective 5/17/99 (2000 MY Sephia).

The material thickness was increased from 2.0 mm to 3.2 mm. If in doubt as to whether a flexplate is old or new, measure its material thickness. Since the increased flexplate thickness reduces the thread engagement in the torque converter to flexplate nuts, KMA is recommending they be installed with liquid thread locker and torqued to 25 lb./ft. The flexplate to crankshaft bolt torque remains unchanged at 71 - 76 lb./ft.

The new flexplate is interchangeable on '98 and '99 models, and can be used to correct certain hard starting problems. The part number for the new flexplate is: 0K25R-19-020A.

Before installing this new flexplate in a hard start complaint vehicle, make certain that fuel pump/ECU relays, fuel pressure, battery voltage, G300 ground etc. have been checked and eliminated as a cause for the hard start complaint.