1999 chevy astro 4.3 automatic a/c not working (bad compressor) this is a long standing problem. I failed inspection for "NOT READY" Ive gone back 4 times and over 200 miles and each time NOT READY inspector says I have to drive it until it cycles.It orignally faied for 02 sensor and service light was on I installed 02 and reset light. since then the service light will NOT come on with key intermittently, I turn key on and will see service light but the next time I start van NO service light. H E L P where am I? where should I start?

 

electrical "issues" are often intermittent and certainly do not lend themselves to easy diagnosis. The wires in the steering column take a lot of abuse, what with the "tilt" steering wheel. I suggest you look into a new ignition switch .... especially if you hang a lot of keys on it. I have had various wires and switches come near to burning up because of the crappy switches and the way the wires lay in tight spaces. Like "wire bundle chafing" in aircraft, the Astro is prone to this all over. A good GM specialist will know where to look for this from years of experience. You don't always get a mechanic with this experience at a dealership. Keep looking for the guy that solves the problem and use him often. This won't come cheap but may save money in the long run by not "fixing" the wrong problems. .... good luck.