cold start up issues

[89rangerfun]

So I have had multiple problems with this motor when it comes to idling and start up. Its an 89 2.9 5speed 4x4 single cab. At first it would idle at 2k ended up being a vacuum line fixxed that everything was good. Then the TPS decided it wanted to randomly go into full open and try to red line. Changed the sensor everything was good. Now that its getting colder when I start it, it instantly dies. the only way to keep it running is give it gas for 30 seconds or so and then its fine. My problem is I plan on installing remote start to help survive these aweful SD winters. (originally from florida) If i cant keep it running with out giving it gas when its not even below zero yet, then I wont be able to use my remote start effectively.


Just looking for a little more info or advice =D

P.S. already has new TPS, new IAC, Clean air filter, recent oil change, 4.0 clutch swap so brand new 4.0 starter and only 84k miles.

 

[RonD]

Because fuel injection has no "jets" like a carb, it means a Choke plate can't be used on cold engine starts.
So from the very beginning of factory fuel injection they had to devise a method of "choking" a cold EFI engine until it warmed up.
High idle, rich fuel mix, advanced spark timing = Choke mode

So EFI computers use an engine temperature sensor to set Choke mode.
ECT(engine coolant temp) sensor is what they used, it is different than the ONE wire temp sender used for the dash board gauge.
ECT sensor has TWO wires and only connected to the computer.

You should find both the ECT sensor and Temp sender near the Thermostat housing.
ECT sensors rarely fail, but you can test it, turn key on
Cold engine should read about 3volts on one of the wires, other wire can read 5volts or 0volts(.0x volts)
After engine is warmed up test that 3volt wire again, it should now be under 1volt, .5-.8volts
ECT sensor is ok

If you don't find a 3volt wire after testing both wires the replace ECT sensor.

If could be a computer issue but ECT sensor is cheaper than computer.

Or a bit easier, if you want to you can try to start engine cold, if it won't start and stay running, then unplug the ECT sensor's wires, try starting again, if it starts and runs then replace ECT sensor.
Unplugging the ECT sensor will turn on CEL(check engine light) but it also puts computer into Open Loop which will run engine richer similar to choke mode

 

[Harley]

im having a similar problem, when its cold the engine barely runs...sounds like its running on 1 cylinder. after it chugs away for a minute or two it will straighten out and run great...only when its cold does this show up...i replaced the ECT sensor and still no change. the temp gauge is also not working. the temp gauge runs off the temp sensor not the ECT right??seemed to start this after i changed my valve cover gaskets??