Idle issue in 95 Civic

[PandaBear]

Originally Posted By: JZiggy
Yeah I need to investigate the dead cylinder, but it's definitely not dead in non-idle conditions. Runs fine and smooth.

Also considering getting the injectors cleaned and balanced, along with replacing all gaskets and O-rings in the intake.


The cheap way to do it is to swap spark plugs between cylinder and get new (no matter how cheap, even junk yard just for testing) wires, cap, rotor, and see if the problem goes away or goes to a different cylinder. This is where your old parts kept as spare comes in handy.

Then you can swap injectors and see if the problem goes to a different cylinder.

 

[PandaBear]

Originally Posted By: ThirdeYe
I have the same issue with my Integra. Mine actually stalls on me, though. Usually after first starting the car and putting it in reverse. I was told by the Acura dealer that it's because my IACVs are bad. One is leaking, and one is not operating properly. I didn't even know they had more than one IACV... I also have a hunch it could be my valves being out of spec as well, contributing to the issue. Mine usually only does it when the engine or ambient temp is warm.


If I remember right you said you have done ATF on the car. VTEC engine only comes with manual transmission and you should have only 1 IACV, and I remember I only see one on my Integra too.

I would not trust what the dealer says on this one.

 

[JZiggy]

Great thought on swapping injectors. I ordered an OEM cap and rotor. I will also put in new plugs.

 

[Tegger]

Originally Posted By: JZiggy
Yeah I need to investigate the dead cylinder, but it's definitely not dead in non-idle conditions. Runs fine and smooth.

Also considering getting the injectors cleaned and balanced, along with replacing all gaskets and O-rings in the intake.

That the engine smooths-out above idle doesn't give you too many clues. Many engines with problems will run much better above idle than they do at idle.

Do the ignition thing FIRST. If the miss (for that's what you're describing) does NOT change cylinders with the moved ignition components, then call Motorvac, and ask for a list of garages in your area that perform the Motorvac service.
Motorvac is an on-car injector-cleaning service that works wonders in restoring as-new spray patterns.
http://www.motorvac.com/

Provided your injectors are original to the engine, they are already "balanced". They were installed as a set when the engine was built.

If the Motorvac doesn't help, then you've probably got a burned valve or compression problems. The same garage that does the Motorvac can do a compression test for you. If they've got a scope, they can even measure each injector's current-draw, which is how you find an injector with a defective solenoid or sticky pintle.

 

[mattd]

on a small 4 cylinder engine a loss in power from one cylinder will be very noticeable at idle. Check out WHY it is not contributing like the others before you do ANYTHING else.

 

[yonyon]

Originally Posted By: JZiggy

Cold idle works fine. When it's cranked up, it goes immediately to 1500-2000 rpm, and settles to 1300. Then it slowly makes its way down to normal idle speed (750).


In light of this I agree 100% with every word Tegger has said.