Runs rough when engine is cold.

DOMEHOME50

MEMBER
1996 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
142,000 MILES

1996 dodge grand caravan. Cranks fine in any weather, but when it is cold. I have to wait until the engine warms up until I can move drive. If I dont wait and I try to push the gas. The engine will not go over 1700 rpm. I can floor it and it will start to go up then drop down and then try to go up again. It continues like that. When it is warmed up it runs perfect. I have new plugs/wires/ coils/coolant temp sensor. Engine was rebuilt 10,000 miles ago. Any suggestions?

4 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

Is the MIL indicating?
Have you tested the throttle position sensor?

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Saturday, December 4th, 2010 AT 6:28 PM

DOMEHOME50

MEMBER
6 POSTS

I ran the codes again today. It was indicating the crankshaft position sensor or the camshaft position sensor. The only thing is I thought these problems would continue the whole time. My problem goes away after it warms up. Also it is getting only 19 mpg when it use to get 24. Thanks

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Saturday, December 4th, 2010 AT 11:18 PM

DOMEHOME50

MEMBER
6 POSTS

I have not tested the tps. Will it throw a code

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Saturday, December 4th, 2010 AT 11:19 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

Did you use a scan tool or the MIL to retrieve the codes?
What were the codes sowing?

When wiring connectors are not sewcure or sensors are out of range, they might work intermittently.

TPS would show a code if it is faulty but might not if it is out of adjustment or just slightly out of specs.

Was the ECT replaced OEM and correct for the engine?

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Sunday, December 5th, 2010 AT 3:32 AM