Hey every one...

Hope all is well with the Folks here, But i have a question though, My car keeps spitting out code 42 , I replaced the Modual in the dist, along with a new cap and rotor, any ideas on what the heck could be causing this, ??? any ideas or direction would be great, thanks GTA......

 

The module could have been one of the problems. Now it look like faulty wiring/connectors, or as stated below, the MEM-CAL in the ECM
My additions in Red.

Here's ALLData's 5.0/5.7L Code 42 diagnostic chart.
CODE 42 - ELECTRONIC SPARK TIMING (EST) CIRCUIT

Circuit Description:
When the system is running on the ignition module, that is, no voltage on the bypass line (Set timing Connector - Ckt424-Tan/Blk wire,) the ignition module grounds the Electronic Spark Timing (EST - Ckt423/white wire) signal. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) expects to see no voltage on the EST Line during this condition (ECM Connector "D" pin 4) . If it sees a voltage, it sets Code 42 and will not go into the EST mode. When the rpm for EST is reached (about 400 rpm), and by-pass voltage applied, the EST should no longer be grounded in the ignition module so the EST (white wire) voltage should be varying. If the bypass line (Set timing Connector - Ckt424-Tan/Blk wire,) is open or grounded, the ignition module will not switch to EST mode so the EST voltage will be low and Code 42 will be set. If the EST line is grounded, the ignition module will switch to EST, but (voltage doesn't rise) because the line is grounded, there will be no EST signal and a Code 42 will be set (because the rpm is =>400) .

Test Description: Numbers below refer to circled numbers on the diagnostic chart.

1. Code 42 means the ECM has seen an open or short to ground in the EST or bypass circuits. This test confirms Code 42 and that the fault causing the code is present.
2. Checks for a normal EST ground path through the ignition module. An EST CKT 423 shorted to ground will also read less than 500 ohms; however, this will be checked later.
3. As the test light voltage touches CKT 424, the module should switch causing the ohmmeter to "overrange" if the meter is in the 1000-2000 ohms position. Selecting the 10-20,000 ohms position will indicate above 5000 ohms. The important thing is that the module "switched".
4. The module did not switch and this step checks for: EST CKT 423 shorted to ground. Bypass CKT 424 open. Faulty ignition module connection or module.
5. Confirms that Code 42 is a faulty ECM and not an intermittent in CKTS 423 or 424.

Diagnostic Aids:
Test light. I stated on a thread to never use a test light to supply power, to clarify it shouldn't be used to power high current devices i.e. Fan, and starter motors.

The "Scan" tool does not have any ability to help diagnose a Code 42 problem. A Mem-Cal not fully seated in the ECM can result in a Code 42.