MK2 poor running

[andydavey]

I have a MK2 8v which doesn't quite run right... It started roughly around the same time as this problem (which cured itself shortly after), but not entirely sure they're related.

Basically, during the first couple of minutes of driving (esp in the cold) if I don't keep the revs up a bit, the car dies during idle. Once warmed up a bit it's fine. When the car's been running for a while (usually about 20 mins stuck in traffic on my way to work) and the temp gauge is showing half way, it feels down on power and runs a bit lumpy. There's also quite a strong smell of petrol when I get out of the car which makes me think it's running rich. I'd be tempted to think it's the blue temp sender that's gone iffy, but I'd just like to check before I go and buy a new one.

The one thing that makes me doubt it might be that is that every so often when it's running rough like this, I'll get a load of extra travel in the brake pedal, which makes me think it's some kind of vacuum leak? Have checked all the hoses though and can't see any obvious splits. Could just be a big coincidence though.

Any ideas?

Cheers,

Andy

[rubjonny]

check the idle switch

[cняis]

whilst its running rough, pull over and disconnect the blue temp sender, if the engine note changes and sounds a lot smoother, your temp sender needs replacing.

[andydavey]

Cheers Crevice, will try that.

Jonny, what do you mean by the idle switch? Sorry if that's a stupid question!

[rubjonny]

its on the bottom of the throttle body, make sure you hear it click when the throttle closes, and check the wiring behind the throttle body hasnt snapped.  Also make sure the throttle cable isn't too tight, the throttle linkage should hit the stop firmly.

Have a read of my digifant FAQ as well