Problem starting when cold or damp.. Help

abulloch · Nov 2nd, 2005, 04:58

I'd be very grateful for any advice or pointers...

* 240 1991 (not diesel), 159,000 miles.

[I know if I take this in for servicing they'll go through throwing out parts and replacing with new till the problem disappears, and as I'm in California this'll cost $1,000 or more...]

The basic problem: when starting in cold or damp weather the engine either won't catch, or it barely does, then falters and dies. Result: flooded (wet) plugs, which I take out, dry off, then get started by flooring the gas - we then judder into action, painfully.

Further symptoms: once started, the engine is sensitive for 20 mins or so. Flat spot at idle (dies occasionally); runs better with gear (auto) in 2nd instead of Drive.

After 20 mins everything's fine: runs smoothly, no more hesitation etc.

What I've done so far: new plugs (Bosch), new distributor cap and arm; fuel injector cleaner (in gas). result: improved but not cured.

OK: What are the top candidates in order of probability?

?? - idle setting? idle throttle? fuel injectors? air mass metre ? other settings?

What would you do first? and then next?

Many thanks for your comments and suggestions.

Anthony

Nov 2nd, 2005, 04:58	#1
abulloch New Member Last Online: Jul 19th, 2007 01:53 Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Berkeley, California	Problem starting when cold or damp.. Help I'd be very grateful for any advice or pointers... * 240 1991 (not diesel), 159,000 miles. [I know if I take this in for servicing they'll go through throwing out parts and replacing with new till the problem disappears, and as I'm in California this'll cost $1,000 or more...] The basic problem: when starting in cold or damp weather the engine either won't catch, or it barely does, then falters and dies. Result: flooded (wet) plugs, which I take out, dry off, then get started by flooring the gas - we then judder into action, painfully. Further symptoms: once started, the engine is sensitive for 20 mins or so. Flat spot at idle (dies occasionally); runs better with gear (auto) in 2nd instead of Drive. After 20 mins everything's fine: runs smoothly, no more hesitation etc. What I've done so far: new plugs (Bosch), new distributor cap and arm; fuel injector cleaner (in gas). result: improved but not cured. OK: What are the top candidates in order of probability? ?? - idle setting? idle throttle? fuel injectors? air mass metre ? other settings? What would you do first? and then next? Many thanks for your comments and suggestions. Anthony

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