Delta/Prisma cold running

[Leo Capaldi]

My Prisma 1600ie runs badly when the engine is cold. On a light throttle the engine jerks violently, but is OK when under load. When warm all is well. Have replaced the blue-top temperature sensor twice and all other sensors except the one in the distributor. The problem seems to be that the ignition timing goes crazy for an instant, rather than being fuel supply related. So my thoughts are that it is unlikely to be the water temperature sensor as that is more to do with the mixture control. However as all is well when the engine is working hard (and still cold) I am lost. Driving in stop start traffic when the engine is cold is a nightmare.

Leo

[Mark Cassey]

Hello Leo
This sounds like the idle control valve needs cleaning. Go to the www.evocars.com web site forum, where there is a good advice on how to clean this part and so overcome this problem
Regards Mark

[Leo Capaldi]

Hi Mark,
Thanks for your response. I am an expert at cleaning out the by-pass valve so it is not that. The jerk is very very violent as if the ignition timing has jumped, so the main suspects are the sensor at the crankshaft pulley or the one in the distributor body. Have changed the former and will replace the latter soon.

Cheers, Leo

[Mark Cassey]

Dear Leo
Have you looked at the wiring in the distibutor from or to the amplifier mounted on the side of the distributor ? On my Dedra all the insulation had broken down. Although it didn't cause me a problem I think I was lucky. Anyway worth looking at

[Colin Noble]

Hi it's me,
Sell and buy a Toyota!
Colin

[Leo Capaldi]

Hi Mark,
Yes the distributor sensor wiring is horrendous - have not changed that as yet but will do.

Many thanks, Leo