Ok, I got it running today! Finally! (after about 30 billion electrical problems ) For those who don't know, it's an '88 10AE with a s5 jspec engine.

Problems: It won't idle. It's also hard to start.

It'll crank for about 4-6 seconds before catching, then it starts instantly. It'll rev to 2500ish, then die. If I give it gas, I can keep it in the 4k range and I assume it'll run for quite a while at that rpm, but I didn't want to rev it that high for long so I just shut it down. If I let it get below 2000 it'll die and I can't get it back.


Anyone know what could cause this?

NO, lack of compression is NOT the cause, and 99% sure that a clogged cat isn't either. The engine has WONDERFUL compression (110PSI on both rotors) and is quite loud out the exhaust so I can't see it being plugged. Maybe, but unlikely. I guess I could disconnect the exhaust to check?

ALSO: The O2 Sensor isn't connected. Would that have ANYTHING to do with this at all? (I just forgot to connect it, just remembered now!)

 

well try connecting the o2 sensor. and then look for any vacume leaks anywhere. check around the TID and stock BOV. make sure every hose is connected

 

Vac leaks! Don't say there aren't any, because I know there will be! Have someone start it for you and slowly push the AFM flapper door open and see if you can get it to run and idle holding it with your hand, it'll make up for the unmetered air.

 

hmm, ok! any other ideas?

 

On the 02 Sensor, It will not effect start up at all. Driveability Is a different beast all together. I drove around with a toasted O2 Sensor for a month after realizing It went bad. Dead, before 20k miles.