RULEMKR

I've posted problems on another thread before but never found a solution. 95 dx will start and run for 2 to 3 seconds and then die. Just to update anyone reading this: I've changed main relays and done all the spark test and checked for voltage everywhere it's suppose to be and not be. I've changed fuel filter as well. What I have noticed is that if the temp outside is below freezing for at least 2 days; the car will start normally and can be driven all day and will crank everytime. I've swapped relays to make sure both were good and it cranks everytime. I took it to get fuel pressure test done when it was running and it was around 40 psi at idle and would drop to around 35 to 37 under throttle. I've let the car run with the heat blasting inside the car and it will still start time after time. Now if the temps warm up outside for more than 2 days then it will go back to previous symptoms. It seems as if something on the vechicle has to be or get extremely cold to work and whatever it is will stay cold for a while until outside temps warms it up. Is the fuel pump affected by cold temps? I do not own a fuel guage so I dont know what pressure is when it's not cranking and running. Could any other electrical part be affected by extremely cold weather?

Lost Again

Ok, so all of the time you have spark....same blue spark-cold or hot.

Have you tested the ECT sensor, two pin under dist?

RULEMKR

Yes. I always have spark. I have not replaced ect sensor. It seems as if it's running out of fuel because after the pump primes and it starts for the 2 senconds; it will not start again unless I turn switch back to the position where the pump has to prime again. It will just turn over but not start. If the sensor is bad would it allow
the vechicle to start after its been driven for serval mile and everything under the hood should be well heatd? How is the sensor tested? Thanks for your response.
Really appreciated.

holmesnmanny

+1

RULEMKR

Would you mind explaining how to test it. And what should I be looking for.

Lost Again

On the 4 cyl 5th gens for the ECT test you will be testing the resistance....

And by what I can tell, you live in AL....so I guess this car starts 6 days out of the year?

RULEMKR

That's funny but sadly true. Thanks.

Lost Again

Hey, I've spent lots of time in LA (lower Alabama)...loved it.

Can you humor me. Next time it is warm out, spray carb cleaner into the TB-open the butterfly- and see what happens.

Since you have noce blue spark all of the time, then something with the fuel system is up.....but I'm guessing you knew that

RULEMKR

I've actually done that. But it still basically did the same thing. (Turns over- starts for 2 or three seconds and quits. Temps going down tonight so it will probably start tomorrow. Still have'nt checked the ECT yet. Can't really get to the wires.

Lost Again

With the help of a friend, or jump the starter, can you keep it running with the carb cleaner?

holmesnmanny

Those things are like 25 bucks at any auto parts store. If you really don't want to test it, just replace it. Even if that's not the problem it's atleast very replaceable.

RULEMKR

It's been starting lately during our recent cold weather. I will do that when it stops starting again. Thanks

RULEMKR

Good idea and easier too. Thanks.

RULEMKR

Finally got around to checking the ECT sensor or should I say "breaking" it.
Anyway since I broke it I had to replace it. Still did'nt solve my problem though.

RULEMKR

Still have'nt had the chance to do this yet.

nus_dogg

ECT sensor is crucial to starting an engine. It can cause hard start and what not if not operating like it should.

RULEMKR

I put a new one on it but nothing changed.

RULEMKR

It runs as long as you're spraying cleaner or starting fluid. Could a fuel pump be affected by cold weather?

RULEMKR

I finally broke down and took it to the mechanic. He did a dionagstic and it showed nothing abnormal. He swapped the ecu anyway and car started right up. He keeps a couple of ecu test units around for certain cars and luckily mine was one of them. I convinced him to sell me the ecu and went ahead and had them change timing belt and drive belts too. Thanks to all who tried to help.