Starts, idles, won't stay running
 

I am working on an 88 non-turbo that I haven't had running in a very long time. Kept lubed, and turned over by hand over the years. Did all the normal starting old car stuff, plugs, wires, filters, liquids, etc. I replaced the fuel pump after cranking it with start fluid. Now she will start and idle for about 10/15 secs and dies immediately. I can keep it running longer by gassing it above an idle and it seems so have no trouble handling that. As soon as i let off of the gas after that however, it dies immediately and i cant bring it back with more gas. Because it's revving fine I'm not thinking fuel flow. What could be the reason it's just quitting?

thanks.

Vacuum leak could be a cause for your problem.

I'd think with a vacuum leak youd either get start/stop almost immediately, or running, but like crap. Depending on size of leak and location. But it's still a cheap and quick check. Use that starting fluid and spray it around hoses to see if idle changes while someone helps you as yours won't stay running. Check the afm, fuel pressure

Fuel pressure is good. Have to wait for a friend to help me check with fluid.


will post with results.

When its idling does it sound healthy

it idles well, holds rpm for the time that it does run. no surging or anything.

I'd say check and make sure both primary injectors are firing.

a video would be helpful

By any chance does the cooling system pressurize in this short run time? check by squeezing upper rad hose..

Is your AFM (airbox,etc) connected to the engine and harness?
If it is not then the car will start but die because it doesn't know how much fuel or air to give the engine as the Air flow meter is disconnected from the circuit.