I have swapped the sensors from the original engine. We have tested them on the bench and tey are to spec. When we remove the connection from the idle air control to the throttle body and plug the hose the start is much easier. Then we let it warm and the car works fine. i cannot fathom what this has to do with ths cold start. It the mixture too lean? Is there an issue with the air mass meter? Am I barking up the wrong tree?

I still get the 1-2-3 code from the diagnostic box. The coolant temp sensor must not be sending the signal tot he ecu. Is there a j-plug in the harness or a component connection on the circut? I am looking for some where between the sensor and the ecu to test the signal.

Any help would be appreciated. It is cold in Wisconsin this time of year and wew need to get this thing fixed. I really don't want to take it to the shop and pay through the nose for a repair I should be able to make myself.

Thanks.

PS. most of the 90 donor car parts are gone. Thanks to every one for their interest.