318 m42 cold start issue

[actletpone]

I have an e36 318 with m42 motor. It runs and idles fine when warm but on a stone cold start it will try to fire then die. If i hold the throttle open for about 1 minute on a cold start it will then start run and idle fine. I have checked the temperature sensor and it is within spec, the icv was not buzzing with ignition on so i tapped it with a hammer and it started buzzing (seems dodgey). But if the icv was the problem why does it run and idle fine when it is warm? Or even still warming up as 60 seconds after a stone cold start it idles fine?

[Eric93se]

I hope you're not cranking the engine for a minute, it will ruin the starter and battery.

Check the spark plugs. Smoke test the engine for vacuum leaks. Make sure the fuel pump runs. Can sensor is a common issue.

[actletpone]

no was not cranking for 1 minute was holding foot on gs to keep revs above idle for 1 minute. Havn't smoke tested but pulls 16hg of vacuum at idle. The fact opening the throttle will allow the car to start and rev makes me think it is not getting enough air?

no disagreeing but dont see how spark plugs / cam sensor would cause this, I will jump the fuel pump relay before cold start today and see if it makes a difference

[Eric93se]

I don't know if your IACV is any different from the other E36's, but as far as I know they should not buzz. So I would starter there and maybe get another one, used would be fine too for that part.

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Spark plugs can be carbon fouled and they will short out instead of providing a strong spark, so pulling all of them to check for black soot and also checking that the gap has not grown to much.