How to adjust cold idle speed

[probell]

My 1998 Ranger XLT 2.5L manual engine dies after I start it in cold weather, unless I keep my foot on the gas. After the engine warms up it runs great. I suspect that the problem is that the cold idle speed is too low.

1) Is that the problem?
2) If so, how can I adjust the cold idle speed?

[fordfishing17]

as far as i know, on newer vehicles you can't adjust the idle speed, thats what i've been told

[Marbles1984]

There should be an idle adjustment screw on ur throttle unit, just look around by the throttle cables and stuff

[Psychopete]

Adjusting the idle might work if it's possible, but you might want to consider that when you affect the idle speed cold, it will affect it when it's warm too.

I'm sorry, I don't know anything about the newer trucks, but it sounds like a temperature sensor is goofing up. I think you should have a intake air temperature sensor. I know that a lot of cheap aftermarket chips modify this signal to change the air/fuel ration.

One way you can check this theory is by looking at the spark plugs. I always tell people, just look at the spark plugs. They'll tell you how your engine is running. You'll be able to find a chart, and it will make finding the problem a lot easier.

Pete