I ran across this forum after reasearching.

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tbi/...-backfire.html

^ this link got me...

I have changed the fuel pump, filter, and choker? something to that sort. I'm thinking it might be the fuel pressure regulator. I know besides this, it could be the catalayc converter, fuel injector, or a dirty carb.

The problem. If the car is cold, it has a hard time starting. I'm guessing the drop in pressure to the gas.

When I crank, it comes on to a sense, sputters then dies. I can continue to do this for awhile before the battery dies. But if I got another car and boost while trying this, it's a 20 minute battle. It works.

What I did.. Turn keey, it's trying to turn on. Then revs up, sputters and dies. when I get it going finally, I can't put it in reverse yet. If I do, it sputters then dies. After awhile it "catches" and I'm good to go. It will run good like that for awhile, until I park for the night, or leave it at work for the 8 hours.

Any idea or help? thank you.

 

Does a 94 even have tbi? What engine?
Hook up a fuel pressure gauge, note the running pressure & does it hold when engine is off. Leak down can indicate a bad regulator or stuck injector(s).
Check the coolant temp sensor, this tell the ecm how cold or hot the engine is, & it fuels the engine according to the readings.
Make sure the map sensor vacuum hose is good, or if it has a maf sensor, clean it.
Check all grounds, esp. the ecm grounds,should be near the bellhousing area.