SC Cold Start Problem
 

I am having problems with my 81 911SC when trying to start it cold. It turns over for about 15 seconds, fires up and then dies immediately. If I then turn it over again it will start right up and runs normal. Any ideas?

Do a search under "cold start" and/or "WUR" (warm up regulator). You will find many many threads about this problem with SC's. Your problem is typically attributed to the WUR, but other things can cause similar symptoms. Also, because it takes about 15 seconds for your car to fire, there may be a problem with the cold start injector or thermo time switch.

During cold start the WUR is supposed to enrichen the fuel mixture (like a choke on a carb), but sometimes they don't enrichen it enough and need to be adjusted or replaced.

Jay:

I wouldn't turn the engine over for 15 seconds at a time - you will fry your starter and flatten the battery.

What is normal? Does the car start at high idle and come down in a timely manner?

Are you low on gas and have you replaced your air and gas filter recently?

John

EDIT: I wonder if a smart tap on the WUR might not dislodge a stuck item. Be sure the wire is well attached to the unit (though this wire only helps bring the idle down/reduce air, which means a bad wire would not prevent you from starting the car).