idle & run issue - starts fine then dies

[Lanval]

Van's been running great the last few weeks. Drove it this morning no problem. Went out in the PM to go pick up the kid. Engine kicked over, started, blew a small backfire and died.

Now - engine turns over strong, starts and runs for about 2-3 seconds, then dies. Gas pedal appears to have no effect.

Can't see anything obviously disconnected, de-grounded, etc. in the engine compartment. Fuses are OK.

I can video tomorrow. Any thoughts on simple things to check?

Best,

Lanval

[Randy in Maine]

[Lanval]

Randy,

Thanks I'll try that.

Best,

Lanval

[Lanval]

Randy,

I got a chance to check that out today.

First I stuck a long screwdriver in there from the intake side. Then I removed the top of the air cleaner, to get a better look at the flap. The flap appeared to working correctly at that point. I hit it a few more times with the screwdriver to make sure it wasn't sticky; I reinstalled the "S" hose that goes to the AFM, (noticing before working that the lower connection was not on well at all) ensuring that all connections were solid and leak free.

Van started up, runs fine.

I'm assuming the problem is as you described, and the probing did it. I'll ask this though - would a slight vacuum leak give these symptoms? I unplugged that little white plug which brings two hoses into the "S" hose one time, and it immediately killed the engine. From this I deduced that a leak in that area would like result in a non-start. Is that, in your opinion, correct? Or is it possible that a small leak would cause a problem only after starting, when there was more pressure in the system?

Sorry for the ingorance here, but rest assured, beer awaits your trip to the West Coast.

Best,

Lanval

BTW - THANK YOU