1988 Buick Regal Stalling when started, then running fine.

GR3YFXX

MEMBER
1988 BUICK REGAL

Engine Performance problem
1988 Buick Regal V8 Front Wheel Drive Automatic 160+ miles

I just got a bad transmission leak fixed, and my car was running great for about a week. Now it's having a rough time starting and staying ideling, even after being warmed up for 5-10 minutes. I have to drive it around my parking lot several times, while it loses power and cuts out. After a few cicles it'll run great, and stay running great for as long as I drive. Any idea what it could be?

3 Replies

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

Hi, how long since a tune-up? Are there any trouble codes? Fuel pressure ok? Need something to point in correct direction. As an example, if temp related, could be issue with coolant temp sensor. Can't be certain?

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Friday, February 12th, 2010 AT 4:04 PM

GR3YFXX

MEMBER
2 POSTS

No codes, other than my low coolant light. I try to keep it capped off, but when I fill it all the way it spits it all up thru the reservoir the next time I drive. It's only been a couple years since I took it in for a tune up, and haven't put a ton of miles on it since. I don't know how to check the fuel pressure to be honest. Is it something I can do myself, or would I need to take it to someone? Hope that helps.

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 12:54 AM

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

Is the over-flow bottle, overfilling? Does the vehicle overheat? Does the radiator fan run?

Yes, you can check fuel pressure yourself. There should be a schrader valve on your fuel rail where you attach the gage. After the gage is attached, you can check pressure, key on engine off, engine running. After the engine is turned off, see if the pressure holds for bit and doesn't drop like a rock.

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 9:28 AM