Hey guys, it seems I'm having the exact opposite problem most other people are having. when I first start my car up it runs like hell, surges and stutters 500rpm or so off where it wants to run no matter what the rpm is at until it heats up to operating temp and then it runs smooth.

also if it's idling at a light or a stop sign sometimes it will die right out if you even feather the gas up to leave the light. Again this goes away once the motor hits 160* or more.

87 IROC 5.7 tpi

any suggestions?

 

may have a bad fuel injector. Also, check for codes

 

All of the injectors test good on my multimeter. I get an intermittent code 32 for egr but it isn't on when the engine surges like that. Also I wouldn't think a bad egr could cause a 500 rpm variance either direction. It's almost like it has a real nasty cam in it but without any guts.

 

My car used to behave like this and even threw a code 44. It couldn't figure out where it wanted to idle at and ran like it was about to throw a rod off a cold start. It would hunt for idle and even stall sometimes.

Try replacing your MAF sensor. That worked wonders for me.

 

before you replace the maf, unplug it and see if it makes a difference. i wouldn't think it would, im not sure if the ecm uses maf data during open loop operation. what your describing actually sounds like it might be an egr issue, valve, solenoid or vacuum. the egr should be closed at startup if im not mistaken, if its partially stuck open it can cause these issues.

 

code 32 can come and go and wont cause any drivability issues , just an annoying light. I doubt it is an egr issue.

 

The car won't stay running without the MAF plugged in, unless I keep it revved to 2000rpm or so

also there is a strong smell of gas in that air housing where it connects to the throttle body.

Do you guys think it could be the ecm messing with the timing?

 

I would replace the coolant temp sensor if it were me. That little sensor controls open and closed loop.

 

is that the same type of sensor that's in the cylinder head for the temp gauge?

 

I think I'm going to yank the motor out this labor day and just try to rebuild the thing, after 24 years I bet it could use it. Do you guys think this would be the right kit for my car, http://www.summitracing.com/parts/FEM-CSMHP761-000/ ?

 

Should be on your intake manifold.