Hi,

Before you flame me, I tried to search this forum, but I get the "You do not have permission..." error.

I've recently obtained a '93 GXE that runs great except for one thing. If it sits for a while (overnight or longer) in rainy/humid conditions, it can be hard/impossible to start. The engine cranks just fine, but it won't turn over. If it does happen to start, there is usually a lot of blueish/white exhaust, a smell of gas and it runs very rough until the engine is completely warmed up. If the car is warm or has recently been running, it will start up in the rain without any problems.

So far I've replaced the spark plugs, wires, fuel filter and checked the distributor cap/rotor without any luck. I read a thread a few pages down where someone had some similar symptoms (but not exact) and it was suggested that it could be the vacuum lines or O2 sensor (which I will check at the next opportunity). Does anyone have a definitive answer as to what could be causing this or any advice as to what else to try?

Thanks,
Tony

 

I have an SE so I don't have a distributor cap, and I although I know you have checked yours, I can tell you from my prior experience with other cars that the cap is very often the culprit whenever moisture-related issues arise, which is what your situation is.

Just my 0.02.

 

get a ruber boot for the distriboator i had one for my old 240sx

 

when you say you checked your dist. cap what do you mean? There is a common problem with VGs that the dist. cap will get condinsation in there and not start. I had this problem on both of my GXEs I have owned. Look at the cap and it seems fine but replaced them with a OEM one and never had the problem again.

Good luck

 

Yep, replace the cap and rotor... cheap maintainence and it will fix your problem.

 

I would also suggest that even with the factory gasket on the new cap, apply some silicone sealant on top before screwing it onto the dist.

 

Thanks for all the advice. I'll try the distributor next.

Tony

 

be sure and get OEM. I have heard horror stories about bosch and some of the other aftermarket ones.

 

could be your map sensor by the intake used to have the same problem