I have a 1988 Honda Accord and have had problems lately starting it from a cold start. The weather is 30-40 F in the mornings. I have been having to pump it to start in the mornings and it will run fine afterward. I replaced the fuel filter under the hood and it seemed to run better, however today 1-27-12, I had to put some gas in the carburetor to turn it on. Not sure what my problem might be and not sure where to begin diagnosing. Asking for any help pertaining to solving this problem.

 

Cold start problems w/ carbed Accord are likely choke not closing when engine is cold. This prevents fuel enrichment and starting.

Choke may be frozen in open position, or movement mechanism damaged.

good luck

 

As TX said this could be something with the choke. For a quick look, you can remove the top of the air filter, then remove the two 10mm nuts holding the round screen. You can then see the choke butterfly. Be sure it moves freely- yes there is some tension but you get the idea.....and if you have a can of carb cleaner, might as well give it a quick clenaing.

The linkage is under the lower part of the air cleaner, so if you have to go there, you will need to remove two more nuts and a few hoses.

There is another fuel filter, Primary, on this car. It is in the back, just to the inside of the left/drivers side rear tire. To change it, it is suggested to remove the rear tire, the filter is inside a "holder/cage" held to the car by a bolt.

On cold mornings, try to "set" the choke before starting. Press the gas pedal all the way to the floor one time then remove your foot, try to start.....

Let us know how it goes...

 

Thanks Poorman 212, I replaced the primary fuel filter which had what appeared to be rust deposits in it and my starting problems are solved. Now to figure out why it stays at a high idle at stops signs sometimes.