Rough idle start

[akty]

Hi all - just a couple of quick (hopefully easy) questions.

The Ty is running super delicious - but her starts are not that great. We did the ol' paperclip type test and come back with a code 13. We know it's engine coolant sensor - but here's the symptoms so we know if we just need to replace - or what to do from here.

Starts just fine with one crank, and then runs like poop for a couple minutes. The check engine light comes on, settles right down and she runs like a champ.

Is this a classic case or a sensor needing replacing, or is there a way to check it?

Thanks in advance.
Nicki

 

[ParTyBoy]

Re: Rough idle start

Hi all - just a couple of quick (hopefully easy) questions.

The Ty is running super delicious - but her starts are not that great. We did the ol' paperclip type test and come back with a code 13. We know it's engine coolant sensor - but here's the symptoms so we know if we just need to replace - or what to do from here.

Starts just fine with one crank, and then runs like poop for a couple minutes. The check engine light comes on, settles right down and she runs like a champ.

Is this a classic case or a sensor needing replacing, or is there a way to check it?

Thanks in advance.
Nicki

Hey pete... It'd be a good idea to replace that sensor.. bad things can happen if the engine isn't reading the propper temperature.. you have ICQ?
talk to Tony from canada... nice guy, A+ personality and a wealth of knowledge to boot..

 

[akty]

We don't hang out on ICQ , 'tis why we posted here - and not quite sure who Tony is?

Of course it's not good to run with a bad sensor, but do we just assume it is bad? The truck is running well otherwise.

Nicki

 

[ParTyBoy]

We don't hang out on ICQ , 'tis why we posted here - and not quite sure who Tony is?

Of course it's not good to run with a bad sensor, but do we just assume it is bad? The truck is running well otherwise.

Nicki

Acutally from looking at my syclone supplement manual a code 13 is a open cricuit..O2 sensor... Have you been running a lot of 104 octane booster or other similar additive in the past year or two? that would or could explain the code.. O2 sensor might need replacement...

Straight from the Syclone Supplement:

1. Code 13 will set:

* Engine coolant temp greater thatn 70c (168f)
* At least 2 minutes engine run time after start
* 02 signal voltage steady between .35 and .55 volt.
* Throttle position sensor signal above 5%
(about .3 volt above closed throttle votatge)
* All condiotions must be met for about 60 seconds

Also goes on to say that the tests will determine if the sensor is at fault or the wiring, ECM... etc..

If you need to borrow my manual to run a check.. feel free to call me or stop by my house to pick it up... All the steps to diagnose the code are in the supplement...

Did you find the replacement harness for the burnt wiring???

A suggestion for you to be able to chat with Tony or anyonw else on a different chat program... If you still use Yahoo IM and AIM alot then download Trillian at www.ceruleanstudios.com .. reason I suggest this is because Triallian combines MSN messenger, AIM, ICQ, YIM, and an IRC chat client all into one small compact program... doesn't act or look any different than any other chat program... That way you can contact Tony if you feel like it...

 

[akty]

Ok - my error - my fingers typed too fast. It's a code 15. We got the explanation from our manual that it was the engine coolant sensor. I was kinda hoping someone had had a similar problem, that after running seemingly rich for a couple of minutes and then settling out once the check engine comes on, that is. I did do a search before I posted, but didn't manage to find anyone.

Is there a trick to checking this sensor? Perhaps I ought to shut up and just buy a new one.