'93 Skylark hard/cold starts

[dholden]

I have a '93 Buick Skylark that doesn't want to start in cold weather. Upon turning the key over I'll get it cranking and then it'll kick and stop. I've replaced the starter numerous times and have a brand new battery (850 cranking amps, 700 cold cranking) in it. Smoke will come from the general direction of the starter as well.

If it does start, it runs rough for a bit and it'll be good for the rest of the day.

I had the battery checked and it was fine, then I had my alternator checked and it was fine. I've also replaced the exhaust system, catalytic converter, and muffler. Alas, that has nothing to do with my problem. (Though, I knew that.)

What else could it be?

[danielsatur]

Cold hard start is a symptom of a bad, or dirty MAF/IACT sensor.
The ECU/PCU needs the correct signals for the cold Air/fuel mix, it's like a choking condition,

[dholden]

Thanks! I'll try it, as long as I'm still talking about my Skylark.. I bought the car in the summer without knowing it doesn't have any heat. (Of course, I live in GA, why would I need heat). Now we're having quite the cold spell, does anyone know how I can replace my heater core? A good mechanic buddy of mine said it was right under the dash. Well, after some searching, I found a wall... Any suggestions?

[junk yard doggie]

Be careful when removing that lower plastic panel that covers the heater core. There are some small hidden screws way in the back up by the fire wall in a recessed area. That plastic panel is very easy to break. It's important because it's also the drip pan for the ac core. Mine was all broke to hell, and the ac dripping swamped the inside of the car. Had to remove the carpet and everything to get things dried up.

[dholden]

Yeah, I looked there and took off the cover (it cracked alittle upon placing back, but nothing major.) and hit the fire wall. Is there another way to reach the heater core?

[junk yard doggie]

That's the only way you can get to the heater core. I fixed my panel by pop riveting a piece of aluminum angle on the back edge. I used a lot of silicone sealant when I stuck it back together. I was making good and sure it wasn't ever going to leak again.

[dholden]

Alright, I've got an update on my car's status.

This morning it cranked a few times and then nothing. I got out, had someone turn the key over while I was tapping the starter, and still nothing.. It seems to me the starter needs to be replaced, but that's not the real solution..

So my question: What is wrong? All my connections are good (including starter connections.)

Edit: I did get the car to start accouple times before, I drove it around for about two days and now this.