[donkej]

I have a small problem starting my honda (accord 97) in cold weather (below freezing). The engine starts fine, then after a second begins to die out, lowering the revs to a stop. If I push the throttle pedal a few times after the engine starts, it will not die out, but slowly bring up the revs to where they should be. After that the engine works perfectly well. In all other conditions the engine starts up just fine. Any ideas on what the problem is? If so please help.

[Duane in Japan]

Tune up with fuel filter, get an induction system (intake manifold and IACV) and engine decarbonning done along with fuel injection professional cleaning. Have the fuel pump evaluated via an Oscilloscope and Amp Clamp or a fuel pressure and volumn test.

Try to cycle the key on a few times prior to actually starting to see if pushing more fuel up to the engine helps. The ECT (TW) sensor would be a good piece of preventive maintenance also.

You either have a fuel delivery problem or a cold idle problem, either way a very cold engine needs lots more gas than a normal above freezing cold start. Let us know what you have done and the results and we can help more.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

The best way to start any modern-day car is to turn the ignition switch to ON (Position II), allowing the fuel rail to fully pressurize during the 2 seconds that the CEL is on, and then turn the ignition switch to START. When you start your car this way, it fires off much better. Also, be sure to use 5W-30 synthetic engine oil--cars start much better, get better gas mileage, last longer, perform better, and it's easier on your battery and starter motor.

[donkej]

Thanks for the answers.
The problem was solved by cleaning the IACV and fast idle valve.