'86 T-Bird intermittent starting issues
sreilly77
07-19-2018, 01:45 PM
My '86 T-Bird with the V6 and 40,000 miles has intermittent starting issues when sitting for more than 8 hours. I turn the key, it starts up, bogs down, then revs back up and idles high until the kick down feature engages. It happens randomly.
Here is what I've replaced:
Plus & Wires
Cap, rotor, ignition coil
Coolant Temp Sensor
Idle Speed Control
Fuel Filter
Fuel Pressure Regulator
Air Filter
I've also cleaned the throttle body (wasn't too bad). I've also cycled the fuel pump a few times before starting it up, but it still happens. Fuel pump was replaced about 5 years ago. The old spark plugs looked alright (just wanted to replace them since the car isn't driven much). The only thing I can think of is possibly a leaky fuel injector? It has a TBI setup, so replacing the injectors is very easy.
When the engine is warm, it starts up quickly and runs fine.
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Here is what I've replaced:
Plus & Wires
Cap, rotor, ignition coil
Coolant Temp Sensor
Idle Speed Control
Fuel Filter
Fuel Pressure Regulator
Air Filter
I've also cleaned the throttle body (wasn't too bad). I've also cycled the fuel pump a few times before starting it up, but it still happens. Fuel pump was replaced about 5 years ago. The old spark plugs looked alright (just wanted to replace them since the car isn't driven much). The only thing I can think of is possibly a leaky fuel injector? It has a TBI setup, so replacing the injectors is very easy.
When the engine is warm, it starts up quickly and runs fine.
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Automotive Network, Inc., Copyright ©2026
