Started the Runner this morning, idled great for about 20 seconds, then dies. It didn’t sputter, but died just like I turned the key off. Would crank, idle to about 1k rpm, then die (so, ran for about 1 sec).

Tried again this afternoon, with the exact same outcome (cranked like a champ, smooth idle, and then die). I got a little more aggressive with the throttle (only way to get it to start), and could get it to run as long as I’m giving it gas. About three of the six times I did that, it ran smooth. It ran rough, like it was struggling with the air/fuel mixture. It would idle smooth for about 5-10 seconds, and die…..

I’m thinking it’s moisture related (it’s been pouring here, which is rare). This afternoon, I popped the hood to realize that things were drenched (especially the driver’s side). I had parked right under an overhang, and most of the water from that side of the house had been running right on that side of the hood.

Water somewhere it shouldn't be?

I’ve looked at how to test the VAFM (crazy contraption) and the TPS. After my being able to get it to run this afternoon, I’m thinking TPS over VAFM.

I know that ultimately, I need to let it dry (gone for the weekend anyway), and do some testing (if it still persists). I’m just impatient (and hate leaving with this on my mind), and would like some thoughts……

Thanks!

 

Could be moisture in distributor cap, easy to check.

 

I thought that, but it idling fine for 10-20 on the first start made me think otherwise.

 

Make sure the Air Flow meter air door is not "sticking" and or getting stuck during operation. Moisture inside the Air Flow Meter is possible.

Verify there is no debris in the air door and or the door is not sticking.

Try giving the meter a few "love taps" to see if engine performance improves.

Also moisture in the EFI main relay and the Circuit Opening relay can cause this.

 

Informational gold. Thanks!

 

Cranked it before I headed out of town this afternoon........started, idled, and revved just fine. no stalling.

 

Good deal! Keep us posted.

 

Got back today, and same issue (fair amount of rain while I was gone).

I pulled the plug to the VAFM, and it looked good and dry (also checked that the vane was moving freely).

I pulled the plug on the ignition control module (I beleive that's what it is, silver rectangle that say "igniter" on it) and it was filled with water (the clip on the connector is broken). This helps control the spark, right? I'm guessing this could cause my symptoms.......

I'm leaving it unplugged to dry and will see if that does it (and need to figure out a way to seal it up).

 

^--- Moisture in the coil/ignitor assembly components may very well be causing your symptoms.

 

I let it dry and secured it tightly with a zip tie. Think I got it!

 

 

Been great since the "repair".


Funny how I thought what may be a $200 part turned out to be a 5¢ fix!

 

Glad you found your problem.