Engine - Difficult Cold Starting and Drive-Away: Overview
85saab02FILE IN S.I. Man VOL. I
SEC. 2 PG. 182
Service Information
SUBJECT: COLD ENGINE START AND DRIVEAWAY, ISSUE: 07/85-769 M81-85 WITH C.I. SYSTEM
Stricter exhaust emission standards took effect in the U.S. in 1981. Saab 8 valve engines with C.I. systems were recalibrated to meet these standards on a so-called "50-State" basis. The calibration strategy emphasizes minimal exhaust emissions during the engine's start/warm-up cycle, optimum driveability and fuel economy at normal engine operating temperature and attainment of specific performance objectives depending upon engine aspiration type. Fundamentally this calibration is fixed for the service life of the car.
Due to variances in driving conditions (including ambient temperature) and driver habits, perceived cold engine start and driveaway behavior may not meet owner expectations at all times. This S.I. is intended to review what can be done to verify that the engine is within specification and functioning normally. In addition, owner advice is recommended to assist in minimizing, if not overcoming, any inconvenience the inherent cold start/driveaway behavior may be contributing to.