I have an 89 s5 rx7. When I turn on the car, it starts but the idle drops to 0 and it dies. I have to start the car and give it a few tap on the gas pedal to about 1k-2k rpm to get it running. Afterwards the car won't die, but the idle sits around 700 or 600 rpm.

how do I fix this problem? Never ran into it on my other s5 rx7

 

Used to happen to my old motor constantly, like every single start.

Eventually stuck a seal, and I threw it out.

Is your tps adjusted to fsm specs? Could need some fiddling.. spark plugs could also be mildly fouled?

Try and check all the simple things first it's probably something little.

 

Start and die usually means a significant vacuum leak. Check for that. Also check AFM sensor is plugged in. If not the car won't run. They can work loose over time.

 

Do you still have all the cold start equipment installed or have they been removed?

 

I have the cold start still installed. I checked the FAQs and adjusted the timing and it seems to be a lot better now. If it happens again, I'll post back here for help.

thanks guys!

 

Ok the problem is still there. Idle is still around 500rpm ish. I was going to replace my spark plugs yesterday but I jammed my right thumb really badly when I tried to use my socket wrench. Now I can't really do anything major since everytime my thumb hits something, I feel like crying.

how do I check for vacuum leaks? Is there an easy way?

should I try replacing my tps or the problem is something else? I have a parts car in my driveway with all stock items still intact.

I have a feeling its the sparks plugs. I just got this car the day before yesterday. Previous owner might have mixed the coil plugs up when he connected them or he might have used all 4 same trailing or leading spark plugs like the other owner I got my parts car from, but I'll double check tomorrow.

 

To check:
Get some carb cleaner, and spray it around various vacuum lines. Wait until you hear one that causes your car to respond. An open vacuum line will suck in carb cleaner and change your idle, so pay attention.

If you just bought the car, you might also want to do a compression test. Could be a little low on a face, or two.

 

I recommend adjusting the TPS first. There are 3 different ways to do this. A search will give you all the hows to do it. Unless the plugs are seriously old, they probably aren't the problem, even if they are all L's or all T's.

 

Just recently cured this exact problem by replacing the mass air flow sensor. Since you have a parts car in your driveway already, take 5 minutes to swap it out and see if your problems disappear.