Why would an 89 Chevy Celebrity be sputtering and dying after driving for 30-40 minutes or so... then must be left to cool down or else shifting into gear kills it again?

Answer 1

This is a very common problem. You have a faulty TCC solenoid. I have replaced this sensor with very simple tools (a 10 mm socket, a rachet, a gasket scraper, a T15 or T20 Torx driver, and replacement parts). It took me about 1 hour to complete having never done this job befor. The following link will tell you how to replace the sensor if you have a 125C tranny (3 speed). Althou the car pictured is a fiero, the same procedure applies. http://www.kichline.com/chuck/fiero/TCC.htm Good luck!!