Problem starting when cold

[jfk1232]

My 1990 Laser has problems starting when it is a bit cold outside, such as early in the morning. It will die 6 or 7 times before finally starting. Or sometimes it will start, but as soon as I push on the gas pedal, it will die. It doesn't have to be very cold outside, only around 50 or 60 degrees.

This problem hardly ever happens when it is warm. What could be causing this? I have a bad throttle position sensor, but I don't know if that would cause the problem.
Thanks

[LeSabre97mint]

Originally Posted by jfk1232

My 1990 Laser has problems starting when it is a bit cold outside, such as early in the morning. It will die 6 or 7 times before finally starting. Or sometimes it will start, but as soon as I push on the gas pedal, it will die. It doesn't have to be very cold outside, only around 50 or 60 degrees.

This problem hardly ever happens when it is warm. What could be causing this? I have a bad throttle position sensor, but I don't know if that would cause the problem.
Thanks

JFK

Is your check engine light on? Have you checked for codes? You probably have a bad coolant sensor. The computer doesn't have any idea what temp the engine is. I would be willing to bet the computer thinks the engine is warm and isn't giving the engine enough fuel to keep it running when cold. The fact that it dies as soon as you step on the gas pedal would also conferm a lean condition.

Regards

Dan

[jfk1232]

Originally Posted by LeSabre97mint

JFK

Is your check engine light on? Have you checked for codes? You probably have a bad coolant sensor. The computer doesn't have any idea what temp the engine is. I would be willing to bet the computer thinks the engine is warm and isn't giving the engine enough fuel to keep it running when cold. The fact that it dies as soon as you step on the gas pedal would also conferm a lean condition.

Regards

Dan

Dan
The check engine light is on. A computer diagnostic test said the TPS, MAP, and coolant temperature sensor were out. However, I replaced the coolant temperature sensor. Maybe the new sensor is defective? I could try to get another diagnostic test, I suppose.

I'm hesitant to replace the MAP sensor because the cover of the intake manifold would have to be opened up and the bolts are really rusted. I'm concerned the threads of the manifold would be stripped when opening it up.

[LeSabre97mint]

Originally Posted by jfk1232

Dan
The check engine light is on. A computer diagnostic test said the TPS, MAP, and coolant temperature sensor were out. However, I replaced the coolant temperature sensor. Maybe the new sensor is defective? I could try to get another diagnostic test, I suppose.

I'm hesitant to replace the MAP sensor because the cover of the intake manifold would have to be opened up and the bolts are really rusted. I'm concerned the threads of the manifold would be stripped when opening it up.

JFK

What codes (numbers) did you get?

Dan

[jfk1232]

Originally Posted by LeSabre97mint

JFK
What codes (numbers) did you get?
Dan

The printout from the diagnostic test is missing, but I remember that it said the coolant temperature, MAP, and TPS sensors needed to be replaced. I replaced the coolant temperature sensors, but not the others yet.

I've noticed one other problem. See the topic I just started about being low on gas.

[beef_bourito]

it might be related to the other problem you mentioned, your engine could be running rich on startup and suffocating itself. that could cause it to die. replace the other sensors, if it still doesn't work, get us those codes.