sam

I've got a 1998 Mercury Sable that runs fine, but at random times will
not restart after it has been stopped. The engine cranks normally, but
sort of catches and sputters and won't keep running. Then I have to
wait about 10 minutes and it starts up just fine. The fuel filter is
almost new. Anyone with ideas on what would cause it to act this way or
has anyone experieinced this?

Backyard Mechanic

sam <justwantsmore@yahoo.com> wrote:

> I've got a 1998 Mercury Sable that runs fine, but at random times will
> not restart after it has been stopped. The engine cranks normally, but
> sort of catches and sputters and won't keep running. Then I have to
> wait about 10 minutes and it starts up just fine. The fuel filter is
> almost new. Anyone with ideas on what would cause it to act this way or
> has anyone experieinced this?
>

You understand the effect of accelerator pedal action while cranking?

Pumping it has the PCM send more fuel, flooring it while cranking sends
less fuel.

When this occurs floor it and see what happens... if worse, pump it and see
what happens.

\How is your gas mileage?

--
Yeh, I'm a Krusty old Geezer, putting up with my 'smartass' is the price
you pay..DEAL with it!

lugnut

On Mon, 23 Jan 2006 22:00:44 -0800, sam
<justwantsmore@yahoo.com> wrote:

>I've got a 1998 Mercury Sable that runs fine, but at random times will
>not restart after it has been stopped. The engine cranks normally, but
>sort of catches and sputters and won't keep running. Then I have to
>wait about 10 minutes and it starts up just fine. The fuel filter is
>almost new. Anyone with ideas on what would cause it to act this way or
>has anyone experieinced this?


A dirty or defective IAC can cause this. If it stays
running when you give it the gas, this is where I would
start. You can either replace it which is what the dealer
will do instead of cleaning or, you can try cleanig it if
you are mechanically functional. It may also help to clean
the MAF sensor in the intake tube. If you want to give it a
try, post back and someone here can more or less explain how
they are cleaned and maybe even point you to a couple of
pictures on the net for reference.

Lugnut