HELP! Major Idle Issues... - Honda Prelude Forum

Angrydrunken · 07-03-2009, 06:46 PM

I own a 97 SH Model with about 126,000 miles and have been having idle issues pretty much ever since I bought it. When I first start it up, it typically will stall out as soon as I let off the clutch while driving. After I've driven for about fifteen or so minutes, the idle seems to become stable and it stalls much less frequently, if at all. Any time I try to use the A/C in traffic or stop and go traffic, it stalls no matter what. It's works fine on the freeway but I have to shut it off as soon as I exit. I have been told it may be the fact that the old intake manifold gasket expands as it heats up, but it doesn't explain the A/C problem. I need insight! Anything helps. I cleaned out the IACV so that's not it.

indylude18 · 07-03-2009, 07:00 PM

Have you run a compression test? Any CELs?

h22jdmvtec · 07-03-2009, 07:01 PM

vacuum leak, or check your fitv.

Angrydrunken · 07-04-2009, 10:27 AM

Yeah, I've run about three compression tests, three out of four cylinders are operating at good levels, but one is around 85-90 PSI. Don't think it's a bad ring, because there haven't been any smoking issues or hesitation. As for a CEL or FITV, I have no idea what that is. I have checked the vacuum and everything is as it should be.

indylude18 · 07-04-2009, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Angrydrunken

Yeah, I've run about three compression tests, three out of four cylinders are operating at good levels, but one is around 85-90 PSI. Don't think it's a bad ring, because there haven't been any smoking issues or hesitation.

Bingo. You may have some valve damage, or you just REALLY need to get it adjusted.

My guess is that you have a bent valve causing your idle problems, but there are many different things it could be.

CEL= Check Engine Light
fitv= Fast Idle Thermo Valve

Check this out to see if it helps you diagnose the problem:

Idle Problems - Look Here First

Angrydrunken · 07-05-2009, 01:19 AM

I completely forgot to mention that a leakdown test was performed and that it came back negative as to any leakage. Real head scratcher. Thanks for the link though, I'll keep digging.

Angrydrunken · 07-05-2009, 01:24 AM

BTW Where is the FITV located?

indylude18 · 07-05-2009, 05:52 PM

Download helms manual here:

Free downloadable Honda and Acura Factory Service HELMS Manuals

Read page 11-114, it tells you how to test the fitv.

h22jdmvtec · 07-05-2009, 07:11 PM

fitv is bolted to the bottom of the throttle body.