88 Camry starting issue

[ProMan]

When I start the engine every morning, the engine will not fire the first time, no matter how long I crank it. I always have to stop and crank it again. It always fire up the second time immediately. Anyone has any idea what causes this?

[calvic]

Pro man, I have an 88 also and my does the same thing. I've just learned to live with it. I've tried numerous things. When I first install new plugs it tends to fire up on first try but after some time it goes back to needing two attempts.

JJ

[typesix]

It is likely that the cold start injector timer is faulty. This tells a cold start injector to squirt extra fuel when engine is cold so you do not have try starting twice. It is a common part for replacement($120-140 for the part).

[Mike Gerber]

I think typesix is correct. Toyota actually refers to this part as the "Cold Start Time Switch". If you are standing in front of the car with the hood open it is just to the right (driver's side) of the block under the brown plastic connector. The one next to it under the green plastic connector is the coolant temp sensor. Again, the one under the brown plastic connector is the one you want. If you have a manual and a DVM, there is an ohm spec to check this part. Sorry I don't remember the spec off the top of my head. If you find it is defective, this is an easy fix. When the engine is cold, remove the connector by pulling the wire wrapped around it to each side and then pull it up. Then unbolt this Cold Start Time Switch. Screw in the new one and top off the coolant as you will loose a bit when you unscrew it. I would test the part first with a DVM since this is not a cheap part and I don't believe it is available aftermarket.

Good luck with the problem.

Mike