wacky cold start idling

Hi, I have some wacky idling happening during cold starts. I bought the Hanes Repair Manual for my model, and it suggested checking the EGR and PCV valves for any stickiness. Another possibility is vacuum leakage. The manual also suggests leaky head gasket (which isn't), fuel pump not supplying sufficient fuel pressure (checked, has enough), clogged air filter (recently cleaned) timing chain/gears worn, cam lobes worn. I highly doubt that anything is worn when it has 59,400 miles, driven by a great grandapa with a max speed of 40 mph, and he always kept regular service intervals. It has been garaged all its life. The plugs are fine, and gas is good.

My engine is the 3.8L SFI code B.

The irregualr idle only happens during a cold start (or warm) and stops when engine is warm. The engine will rev above and below the targeted warm-up idle, at steady peaks and falls. I've checked the EGR (poked the diaphragm alot). The manual doesn't tell me how to get to the PCV valve, though.

If anyone has any thoughts or knows what the heck it's doing, any suggestions will be considered, besides lighting it on fire. Thanks!

if an aftermarket pcv valve has been installed the car will do that or a faulty coolant sensor. the pcs valve is BURIED under harnesses and brackets diagonal from the steering pump.

Any sensor relating to cold starting is suspect here and will require a thorough check. It is also possible that low fuel pressure is causing starvation problems during cold starts due to the increased demand when cold. You might also check the IAC and throttle body for cleanliness and clean anyway. You will need to know whether the mixture is rich or lean when cold. Black smoke is likely when rich. Ignition problems are also suspect. This is not a troubleshooting for the faint of heart or inexperienced. Ray

hey, well, I operated on it and figured out that it was a couple of leaves and dirt blocking the evaporative emissions canister. Go figure, some stupid lil simple thing. Thanks guys