Starting/Acceleration Problem for '96 OLDS 88

[rell2tru]

When I first start my vehicle, it's fine, but when you let it sit for 20-30 mins tops before starting again it'll struggle to start. When started, it'll shake and rattle if it's sitting idle, when trying to accelerate, and at a complete stop. And NO I don't need a tune-up, I had that done last January. Oh and let alone when I try to drive the shakiness off, sometimes the engine light flashes on and off repeatedly for a minute until it's stuck on. I know it's fuel related, but I'm not sure if it's:

1. Fuel Pump
2. Fuel Filter
3. Fuel Injection System needs cleaning.

If ANYONE can help me, I'd greatly appreciate it a lot! Thanks!

[maxwedge]

Welcome to AF. First of all get the cel codes and post back, you could also check the fuel pressure at the rail.

[rell2tru]

According to AutoZone's free engine light checking system, a code P0171 came up stating the "fuel system for bank 1 was too lean while bank 2 identifies on the cylinders on the opposite bank". The Definition given" Fuel trim bank one condition.

Probable causes listed:
1. If bank 1 and 2 codes set together suspect fuel pressure or MAF (mass air flow) sensor.
2. O2 sensor defective (although I got that fixed last year too).
3. Ignition misfire repair
4. Fuel Injector Problem.

[maxwedge]

And low fuel pressure will cause a lean code also. Gotta start somewhere, just basics. The MAF would normally set 101/ 102, if it was an issue.

[rell2tru]

So I'm assuming it may be the filter or pump then right?

[maxwedge]

Correct, start by testing the FP.

[rell2tru]

[I just went to a shop and they were talking about how it actually might be the O2 sensor. Turns out, the place where I got work done at (according to archived records from visits) that they replaced the MAP Sensor!!! So my bad for saying it was the O2 sensor, but indeed it was the MAP sensor! So the O2 sensor may be a possibility now...any more suggestions? Because they want me to (of course) pay them to run a diagnosis on my car THEN fix whatever it is, you know? I'm really trying to get this over with!!!!!!


Update: I did my reasearch....turns out it IS INDEED the O2 sensor!! Positive on this!!

[maxwedge]

How do you not understand what has been suggested so far, check FP to eliminate low fuel pressure then proceed to the other possibilies than can cause lean code that were outlined. A fp test takes 5 minutes. An o2 sensor would not normally cause your stated symptoms, a bad MAF could as well as the other listed issues. What other way beside the shop checking for the source are you suggesting as an alternative here?

[rell2tru]

Like I said, I shopped around and they wre all telling me that may be the problem. Today, I left my car idle for a couple minutes waiting for someone, so I switched in reverse and I saw blue fume smoke that pushed out the muffler. How do I test the FP??

[maxwedge]

With a fuel pressure gage at the fuel rail port.

[rell2tru]

And I can get this done where?