1988 Dodge Aries Cold Start Stall

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BILLY H.
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have that named model, mileage about 105440 miles.
I bought the car used back in June this year, and gave me no problems through the summer. Now, all of a sudden, because of it getting cold, when I start the car to idle in the morning, it dies immediately after I start it. Now, during the day, when I start it, or after I have driven it for a little while, it works better. While I'm driving it in the morning, it seems to jump forwards as if something's cranking wrong or something, dunno how to describe it. Only recently changed the oil and put new coolant-antifreeze in...what do you think? Plus, is the problem something I can fix myself, or do I have to bring it to a mechanic? I would prefer the earlier option, but, you know...
Sep 21, 2006 at 2:11 AM
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BUBBA_KOSKI
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 129 POSTS
a 1988 model, probally carbuerated i suggest, check the butterfly valve and the choke assembly make sure they're working properly replace as needed. Then check the idle speed screws if a 2bbrl. there 2 screws if a 4bbrl 4 screws, tune by ear
Sep 27, 2006 at 4:10 PM

Suggested Repair

On this likely carbureted engine, inspect the butterfly valve and choke assembly and replace them if they are not working properly. Then check the idle-speed screws—two on a two-barrel carburetor or four on a four-barrel—and adjust the idle by ear.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1988 Dodge Aries with about 105,440 miles says the engine dies immediately after a cold morning start, runs better once warm, and jerks forward while driving in the morning. Oil and coolant were recently changed. The expert says the car is probably carbureted and recommends checking the butterfly valve and choke assembly, replacing parts as needed, then checking and adjusting the idle-speed screws by ear.

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