1996 Honda Civic hesitation cold/power loss-need some honda

1996 HONDA CIVIC
94,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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JCHINO
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  • 1 POST
i recently purchased a 96 civic,1.6l,(d16y8),4 speed automatic,94000 miles, i tuned the engine with all honda original equipment parts-plugs,cap,rotor,wires,gas filter,also timing belt, water pump. and im still having this hesitation/power loss when eng is cold. only for half mile to 1 mile,after that,car runs great. the trans is a 4 speed automatic,i flushed the trans once so far with honda trans fluid,going to flush at least 2 more times. i always believed in oem parts with all my vehicles. i checked the fuel pressure today- was 35psi regulated and 45psi with regulator disconnected. the car has no check eng lights and also checked for codes-none. i have done a complete visual inspection on everything under the hood several times. the car will shift from 1st to second with no problem,then 2nd gear has this hesitation/power loss untill i can get car to 2600 to 3000 rpm, and then it just takes off. only will do this when car is cold. when the car is warmed up,it runs and shifts perfect all gears. the car will not have another issue unless car sits for several hours. i also noticed twice when eng is cold and idling, it would run rough and almost stall,and then the idle would just jump and then idle normal. any help or suggestions would be great. not sure where to go from here. can really use honda tech's advice. thanks
May 19, 2008 at 8:45 PM
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KHLOW2008
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Hi there,

Based on your description, I can suggest 2 items to look at.

If your trans is fully electronically controlled with no throttle cable control, then it could be the TPS or a defective 02 sensor. 02 sensor have 2 circuits, Bank 1 will show by the check light if defective whereas bank 2 will not show. Use a scanner to get the reading of bank 2 while driving.

If your trans utilises a trans throttle cable, then late upshift during cold can mean improper throttle cable adjustment or control valve is sticking.
May 25, 2008 at 7:00 AM
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BIGDADDYO
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I just purchased a 96 also with a similar problem. I did some searching online and found a recall for the throttle cable that sounded like what I was having problems with. I called my local dealer gave them my VIN, the recall had not been performed on my car so they are ordering the part. I'll let you know if that fixes my problem.

Honda Service Bulletin 99-047

Mike
May 28, 2008 at 10:49 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.