Mk1 F4R Cold Start Issue

[Gary_F4R]

I'm having a problem with my Mk1 F4R.

When the engine is cold, it will start up but run like an absolute dog for a good 5-10 mins or so. Whilst it's running like this you can't drive it, if you try and pull away the engine literally has no power and the revs drop right down, even when you press on the accelerator.

Once the engine has fully warmed up, it idles and drive absolutely fine.

I have checked the plugs and leads and they are all fine. I've also replaced the Coolant temp sensor. I'm now wondering if its anything to do with the fuel pump as its currently running a Walbro one. Also noticed that the CAT glows red hot when the engine is running bad

Help please!

 

[Ryanph1rs]

check to o2 sensors but the fact the cat is glowing is a bad sign... id get it plugged in and see if any codes come up but also id be taking it to a garage

 

[Ryanph1rs]

also to add its not sounding like the fuel pump because it would be like it consistently. if its only when its cold then its going to be something else

 

[K.Cheung]

sounds like a bad lambda sensor to me, that used to happen to my old Clio I had a few years back, got it plugged in and boom faulty lambda sensor got it changed and it was sweet

 

[rctempire]

check to o2 sensors but the fact the cat is glowing is a bad sign... id get it plugged in and see if any codes come up but also id be taking it to a garage

Good luck with that
Id be checking the lambda sensor is good. Basically if the cat is getting that hot, the mixture is wrong.

ALso id look at changing the MAF sensor.

 

[Gary_F4R]

A guy at work I was chatting to about it recons its most likely CAT/lambda sensor

 

[rctempire]

Exactly.
Also, good luck getting that off

Found it can be easier dropping the exhaust manifold then clamping in a vice then getting the sensor out is easier.

 

[DTM Cars Ltd]

Good luck with that
Id be checking the lambda sensor is good. Basically if the cat is getting that hot, the mixture is wrong.

ALso id look at changing the MAF sensor.

I think he means the MAP .

Andy

 

[rctempire]

I think he means the MAP .

Andy

Yes I did mean MAP.

Well spotted.

 

[Gary_F4R]

Thanks for all the help guys. I'll keep you posted how I get on