Question : 1987 S10 2.8 l auto - dies at idle

[deneb66]

Have a problem with engine dying out at every stop light, getting off freeway etc. Car was tuned up (new plugs, wires, rotor, cap, fuel filter, PVC, etc) recently, now this started last night. Smooth acceleration, no smoke etc. thinking it could be IAC on throttle body or EGR - how can you tell? Idles rough - like it's missing - until it's warm,then it starts the stalling when it's at normal operating temp. Other thing I noticed is that right after you restart it, it bogs down like it's starved for gas for a few seconds and then resumes normally - until you stop/idle. Always fires right back up. Engine has 167xxx miles on it. No mods - was a "grandpa" truck, he just did reg maint, never added, changed anything. I was down to less than an 8th of a tank of gas when this started happening. Could I have gotten some junk from the tank and fouled the fuel filter? Runs fine, smoothly when running but take your foot off the gas and all hell breaks loose. I'm ready to drive it off the bridge..

[bszopi]

Do you know the last time the fuel filter was changed? If not, then that would be the first place I would look. And its nice because its a cheap part to replace.

Welcome to the site!

[geoffinbc]

Check the EGR sounds like something may be clogged in the valve keeping it open a bit. IAC could also be a culprit if it is not the EGR.

To check the EGR just unbolt the valve from the manifold and check for carbon buildup and make sure the valve moves freely. Clean anything in it with a wire brush and replace it if the valve appears good.

[deneb66]

Thank you - site was recommended by MANY people..I can see why - excellent source of info.

[deneb66]

I'm going to try the IAC first - the truck sat idle for a long, long time and TB was all gummed up with varnish and junk. EGR after that...Nothing like working on your truck when it's 95 degrees outside in the shade. PS - Canada is great! Drove to Toronto back in 2005 and didn't want to come back!