93 Camry V6 Start/Idle problem

[vn800]

My V6 GX Auto estate has been stored for 2 years. From cold starts and runs perfectly, idles for hours, runs fine on motorway. Switch off, leave for 10 mins or so, now only just starts, engine light on, idles@1500/1800 , seems to run "rich", lumpy, no power (as in undriveable). Leave overnight or (generally this works) disconnect battery for 20 mins or so, back to normal. I haven't got a code out, Toyota main dealer couldn't either, suggested head gasket and offered to strip further? (both heads done in 03 anyway). Good local garage stuck (car to old for their software). I'm due to collect car this week - any suggestions gratefully received as to where to start with this one.

[Brian R.]

Welcome to the AF!

There is a Toyota Service Manual for your engine at the top of this forum in a sticky post.
Here's a start (top is most likely-easiest, bottom less likely-hardest IMO):
1. Check for vacuum leaks in hoses-bad connection, cracks
2. Check for bad electical connections on ignition system
3. Check your engine coolant temperature sensor and electical connection. <= My guess
4. Check your heated oxygen sensors (the ones closest to the heads) <= My second best guess
5. Clean the EGR valve
6. Check EGR Gas Temperature Sensor and VSV
7. Check EVAP VSV
8. Clean the IAC valve and throttle body

[davemac2]

I'll go with Brian's second best guess first. On these V6's, I don't think the temp sensors go bad all that often. However, if the coolant level was very low, then maybe the sensor would not work well.

You should be able to pull the engine code fairly easily yourself by shorting the TE1 and E1 terminals (I think) in the diagnostic plug below the driver's side in the cabin there. No need for a scanner tool. Any mech worth his weight should know that fo rthe OBDI cars.

How old are the wires and plugs? Any possibility of damage from animals?

Inspect the intake and air filter for dead animals or debris that may be affecting the MAF sensor. Also carefully inspect the 4" air intake snorkel for any cracks.

Replace the oil and coolant ASAP if it has been sitting that long.

Check your serpentine belt tension to make sure you are not getting slippage. As well, check the battery and alternator output when it starts runnning bad like this. Check the battery terminals for corrosion.

I don't think I would tear down the engine because I SUSPECTED bad gaskets until I did a few tests. When it starts running really bad after a warm start again, stop it and pull the plugs and inspect them to see if you have a bad cylinder. A wet cylinder could indicate a gasket leak or a leaky injector. Smell the exhaust to see if it smells sweet. Do a block test from the coolant reservoir to see if you do in fact have exhaust gases in the coolant. If the heads were done just before you put it into storage, then perhaps they need to be re-torqued somewhat.

dave mc

[RIP]

This is what you should be doing (if you aren't already) to pull codes from a an OBD1 system as you have: http://www.autozone.com/az/cds/en_us...rInfoPages.htm

There are two DLC connectors (test plugs). As davemac2 said under the dash on the drivers side and the second is under the hood on the passenger side. Should see a plastic cover over it that says "diagnostics". I use a paperclip as a jumper.

I'll second davemacs thoughts on the head gaskets. Way too early to jump to those. The dealer has focused on your wallet instead of your car.

[Brian R.]

I totally missed the part about having been stored for two years. The vacuum leak possibility is much more likely, depending on how it was stored. Are you sure you have good gas in the vehicle?

[vn800]

Cheers guys, Thanks for your suggestions. When I get the car back later this week I'll start a logical investigation. I tried pulling the codes but got nothing, hence the trip to the (usually very good) main dealer - maybe not this time?? Coolant levels normal, mainly fresh gas in the tank, quick visual on hoses wires etc seemed OK but a detailed look is now in order, I haven't checked anything on battery/alternator side. I'll post back on my progress - when and if.......

[RIP]

Just in case - disconnecting the battery clears the codes.