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1986 carbureted Toyota Corolla start problem

I have a 1986 Corolla (FWD, 4AC engine) with 50K highway miles (all mine) that over the past few months has gradually become harder and harder to start, hot or cold. It always cranks fine but either dies right away or chugs and gradually increase in RPM.

I've checked for vacuum leaks and gone through the factory manual's procedure for checking the emissions and fuel systems, except for the tests requiring high altitude or temperature below 45F. I also checked the carb adjustments (choke opening, base and other idle speed). The AAC diaphram doesn't leak. The fuel solonoids click when voltage is applied directly to them. The choke mechanism doesn't bind, and the choke seems to open gradually as the choke spring uncoils. Acceleration is fine, hot or cold, at least as well as can be expected from 75 HP.

A year ago I changed the plugs (NGK), vacuum hoses (all Toyota), and had the engine checked (175 PSI, 5% leakdown). Oil consumption is better than a quart per 5K.

What could be the problem?

Reply to
Snookums
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My 1990 copy of the Lemon Aid used car buyer's guide points to a defective Ignition Control Module (transisterized points module inside the distributor) in 1985-86 Corollas which can cause stalling or hard starting. Toyota was replacing them free of charge under a recall program. You can get ICM's tested for free at some parts stores. I've had to replace the ICM on my Festiva twice. I wrote something about it for my website (see below) under "Cars". I recommend the heat transfer grease used in computers when installing a replacement.

It also says older cars with stalling problems should have the valves checked for carbon buildup. Maybe the valve cover can be removed and the valves sprayed with solvent to clean them? I used the stuff you put in the crankcase just before changing oil to clean the valves on my Festiva but was advised here that could intro nasty hard bits into the engine. If your compression is uniform I'd guess against uneven carbon buildup on the valves.

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Reply to
William R. Watt

check the ignition coil, especially if yours is inside the distributor cap

Reply to
nospampls2002

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