My wagon has this problem when I first drive it for the day. It idles a little rough, but doesn't usually stall. When I start the drive, the engine will just start to sputter and hesitate, and then backfire. Usually after doing this a few times, it will go and it won't happen again. What should I be looking at to fix this? I guess I figure it is an air or fuel flow issue, what would cause this when cold but not once it is warmed up? Thanks.

Check your spark plugs.

General start procedure (for non-injection engines):
Pull the choke out full (no gas pedal) while you start it up, and then press the choke back in halfways before you drive off.

I'll check that today. So far I have cleaned the throttle body, and the IAC, changed the air filter, sealed up some holes in my intake hose, none of which have rectified the problem. Once it gets warmed up, it runs fine. I am not a very experienced mechanic, I just do the easy stuff I feel comfortable with. This board is a tremendous help.

Plugs are fine, distributor cap and wires are relatively new and look okay. Could the coolant temp sensor be bad? No check engine light. Or maybe the o2 sensor? It looks pretty old. Car runs fine after warming up, and idles fine from the get go. But as soon as any load is put on it, it starts to hesitate and pop. Anyone? I'm getting desperate and worried it is serious, please help.

"I'm getting desperate and worried it is serious."

Umm, I'm not familiar with fuel injection, but since you're worried...It doesn't sound serious. The move of the board seems to have thrown some people off. Hang in there until they get their bearings. AyeRoll for eg.

Anyhow, my opinion. Sounds like you're getting a lean condition. Ie. throttle is opening when you step on the gas allowing more air but fuel not being fed. Maybe dirty injectors? Plugged fuel filter? Fuel pump? Sorry.
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'80..245..M46...b21a..SU carb..