Dies on idle - help needed

[mteich21]

'86 K5, 5.7L 350 (all stock, no mods. This is my first ever build, so I'm learning slowly as I go)

Was driving on the freeway, and it died going 65+.

Changed the fuel pump, filter, and line, thinking that was the issue.

Now it runs great when foot is on the gas, but dies on idle.

When I have the sensor (shown in the pic below) plugged in, idle flutters, then dies. When I unplug the sensor, it idles fine and doesn't die.

What's the sensor for? And thoughts fixes?

A friend thinks it's running rich, carb might need adjustment.

thx!!

 

[ZooMad75]

That's the mixture control solenoid for the computer controlled Q-jet.

Sounds like the carb is going to need a rebuild and possible replacement solenoid as part of the process.

 

[Wes Harden]

That is actually a solenoid. The Mixture Control Solenoid, it is adjusting the air fuel ratio according to what the computer see from other sensors. The solenoid is working or it wouldn't die, sounds like the computer is getting bad info. Is the check engine light on ?

 

[mteich21]

You guys are awesome! Much appreciated

>>Is the check engine light on ?
I put in an LMC dash bezel, and it covers the check engine light. doh

A carb rebuild sounds complex. I need to figure out a quality 80's Chevy mechanic in the Bay Area

 

[ZooMad75]

You guys are awesome! Much appreciated

>>Is the check engine light on ?
I put in an LMC dash bezel, and it covers the check engine light. doh

A carb rebuild sounds complex. I need to figure out a quality 80's Chevy mechanic in the Bay Area

Happy to help.

Can't help you find a guy locally. But if we're close I'd help you out. I'm pretty far from the bay area for sure.

 

[mteich21]

I'll throw this pic up, so anybody who sees me on the road can identify me.
-don't mind the baby exhaust pipe hanging down. That lasted two weeks until I made it to Johnny Franklins.

 

[Wes Harden]

going to dig through my books and look for my CCC stuff. Computer Command Control. you will need to be able to see the check engine light to diagnose this issue. Also at the emissions inspection/test will fail if light is not visible and functioning. Haven't really messed with things since the mid 90's, am a bit rusty.
Things you want to find and correct, vacuum leaks, either hoses or gaskets. wiring make sure all the sensors have good connections esp O2 and map sensors

 

[mteich21]

This might be a dumb question, but can I do a check engine test anytime, and get the code(s) response for any current issues?

Obviously CA is tough with smog, although I have another 1.5 years before the next test.

 

[kbclamper]

Where are you located? I use to go to johnny franklins but have now switched to a1a. Better price and better work.

All around auto in windsor has been my go to shop for my old 89 blazer and my current 88 suburban they have done good work at a fair price

 

[kbclamper]

Where are you located? I use to go to johnny franklins but have now switched to a1a. Better price and better work.

All around auto in windsor has been my go to shop for my old 89 blazer and my current 88 suburban they have done good work at a fair price

The owner drives a squarebody too

 

[Wes Harden]

Yes you can check the codes you'll need a obd 1 reader. or a paper clip and the check engine light

 

[mteich21]

Where are you located? I use to go to johnny franklins but have now switched to a1a. Better price and better work.

All around auto in windsor has been my go to shop for my old 89 blazer and my current 88 suburban they have done good work at a fair price

Moved up to San Rafael about 2 years ago and loving it.

All Around Auto sounds like a great spot! I'll give them a ring in the morning.

Also heard good things about Genuine Motors in Novato.

 

[Wes Harden]

Found my books get me the 8th digit of your vin number, if you can get a code will be much easier to diagnose. connect a test light to terminal D and groung, use a paper clip at diagnostic connector. Use a second paper clip to connect terminals B to A. With key in the on position (not running) the light should blink, either the one you added and the dash.
count the blinks. will be like Morse code blink blink pause, that would be 2, then the next series blink blink blink pause would be 3, then it will do 2 pause 3 pause twice more for a total of 3 in a row, if there is other codes it blink them out 3 times each, then start over at the fist code. be ready to write them down. you should get a code 12 for sure, that is normal. Code 12 is a timing code, EST (Electronic Spark Timing) since the engine isn't running that code is expected. Code range is 11 to 54 with some numbers skipped.

 

[mteich21]

I haven't had any beer yet today, so my counting should be correct: 8th digit is an 'L'

 

[Wes Harden]

Yup L is a 86 350 my book is 85 but it will work they didn't change much if at all. Any codes?