Questions and Answers
Engine Flooding
Q. Hi Vincent, This winter has been particularly bad in Chicago and I had to tow my vehicle to car mechanics garage a couple of times, as it would not start in the morning. As I do not have the luxury of car garage, after chilling night, car may not start in the morning.
I know the various factors that precipitate the situation, such weak battery, moisture on the ignition system, thickened lube oil, slow cranking speed etc. But it seems that one another onerous condition is created if engine does not start quickly, that is flooding of the engine. Modern EFI engines inject extra fuel for cold start, and during unsuccessful attempts to start, lead to excess fuel and flooding of the engine.
I had discussed this problem with the mechanics at car dealer service center and different persons gave opposite answers. One suggested that if car does not start in two/three attempts and flooding is suspected, then press the throttle to full and then turn the start key. This would allow excess air to evaporate the excess fuel. But full throttle may also inject extra fuel. Another mechanic said that press the throttle only one-third down and then turn the start key.
Could you please provide some convincing and logical answer from your profound wisdom? Is there a simple way to get rid of the flooding condition, when you are stuck on the street.
Thanking you in advance for your advice.
Lal SinghA. Once a car has flooded there is not a whole lot you can do. Time will dry them out or removing the plugs and cleaning them will. Most fuel injection systems have a "clear flood" mode. That is to say if you hold the gas pedal completely down while cranking, fuel will be shut off and the incoming air will dry the spark plugs to the point where they will fire.
The question here is; "Does my car have this function?" The answer is in the owners manual. If it does, the owners manual will give you complete details on how it works and when to use it.
Of course the best way to fix this problem is before it starts. A fresh set of plugs installed before winter hits is a good way. Getting the battery tested and replaced if necessary is also a good idea. If you don't have the luxury of a heated garage, the installation of an engine block heater is the next best thing. I have one in my Mercedes diesel and it is a life saver.
