96 Accord LX, 2.2L 5 speed 180,000 miles. Currently there are no codes with the key turn short the ecu method. There were no codes when tested with an OBD II about 6 weeks ago.

The car starts fine and drives fine (I only drive about 30mph in the neighborhood)for about a 1/4 mile then it starts running very poorly. It starts shuttering and bucking as if it is trying to stall. Feels almost like it is starving or running out of gas.

This goes on for about 1/2 mile. (I keep it from stalling if every few seconds I push in the clutch and rev the engine a few times. Its much worse if I start the drive with A/C on. These symtoms continue for about 1/2 mile every time then the engine smooths out and runs ok.

I changed plugs, distributor cap and plug wires recently and changed fuel filter 8,000 miles ago. The fuel filter had been sitting in the box but inside the house for about two years before installing.

I suspect that the original fuel pump may have a worn impeller, taking longer to build up enough fuel pressure to push through the initial restriction of the gas filter? Any other ideas are very welcome. Thanks always.

 

Check your FPR. Pull the rubber hose off of it to see if there's fuel spilling out of it. If so, its bad. Replace it.

Also, check that all four of your injectors are working(clicking) by putting a screw driver on each injector and listen through the screw for fast clickings while the car is running. This will tell you if the injectors are working or not.

 

Nus Dogg: Thanks a bunch! I had not thought of this!! I will give it a try and let you know how it turns out.

Also any other ideas from other members will be appreciated!!

 

Try cleaning the jets or running sea foam threw it to clean the fuel filter and fuel system! Also check the lines to the fuel system to make sure no leaks. Check the ground where you park also for gas or any liquids. Ever had a timing belt change or adjustment???

 

But "then the engine smooths out and runs ok". So once warm everything goes away and it runs fine (gas mileage, performance, ect)? Did this start before or after you replaced the parts you listed.

 

it sounds like a fuel system delivery problem, simply buy a fuel injector test kit, and it the light blinks on all four then they r fine...Nxt, how long has it been since u changed the fuel pump?...sputtering, hesitations it could that!

 

Does the symptom only occur during a cold-start? Or, does this happen during both cold and hot starts?