Cold Engine

1983 Honda Prelude AutomaticSECTION Cold Engine
  1. Disconnect the air suction lower hose at the anti-afterburn valve. Start the engine and quickly raise the engine speed to 3500 RPM and close the throttle suddenly. If there is no vacuum, go to step 4).
  2. If there is vacuum, check for voltage at anti-afterburn control solenoid valve (Blue/Yellow wire). If there is no voltage, got to Trouble Shooting. If there is voltage, disconnect lower vacuum hose from anti-afterburn valve. Check for vacuum at the hose.
  3. If there is no vacuum, check for leaks or disconnected hose. If there are no defects, replace the anti-afterburn control solenoid valve and retest. If there is vacuum, replace the anti-afterburn valve and retest.
  4. Jack up the front of the vehicle and support with safety stands. Block the rear wheels and set the parking brake. Place the shift or selector lever in second or 2 position and accelerate. Suddenly release the throttle and check for vacuum during deceleration above 15 MPH.
  5. If there is vacuum, go to Hot Engine test. If there is no vacuum, check for voltage at the anti-afterburn control solenoid valve above 15 MPH. If there is voltage, go to Trouble Shooting. If there is no voltage, disconnect the lower vacuum hose from the anti-afterburn valve and check for vacuum above 15 MPH.
  6. If there is vacuum, replace the anti-afterburn control valve and retest. If there is no vacuum, disconnect the upper vacuum hose from anti-afterburn valve and check for vacuum. If there is no vacuum, check for disconnected hoses or leaks and retest. If there is vacuum, replace the anti-afterburn valve and retest.
NOTE: For California models only, see PULSE AIR SYSTEM tests before proceeding to Hot Engine tests.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.