Guys and Gals,

The idle circuit has finally gone.  It will no longer idle (cold) without my assistance.  As the vehicle warms up, the idle improves from ragged to acceptable.

Vehicle:  91 Carat (2.1 l) Automatic
Mileage:  182,000 mi
Description of Symptoms:  Immediately after cold start, it will idle fine for 5-15 seconds.  The idle then degrades (slows) until it dies within 5 seconds.  Recrank and it starts fine and repeats the cycle.  When warm it idles and runs out fine.

New parts thrown at the vehicle in vain hope:  Spark plugs, fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, air filter, fuel pressure regulator, idle stabilizer valve, temp sensor II.  The micro switch under the throttle is adjusted properly.

Other than cold idle, the vehicle runs and drives properly.  No other issues or problems.

What is the cause of the problem?  I think that the offending part is the idle control relay.  It is the only part in the idle circuit that I have not replaced.  It is the original relay which has been with the van since new.  Before I part with big $$$, does the list have any suggestions.  Anyone else experienced these symptoms and solved the problem?

Thanks in advance.

Dennis Lockwood
91 Carat
Original Owner