Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1986 Mitsubishi Starion ESI-RFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Dual Reed Valve System
- Disconnect air hose at air cleaner. Start engine and warm to operating temperature. Accelerate engine to 4000 RPM and as engine is decelerating, feel for suction at air hose.
- If suction is confirmed, system is functioning correctly. If system does not perform as specified, attach jumper wire (or test light) between Red/White wire of air control solenoid valve and ground. An audible signal should be heard (or felt) and suction felt at the hose.
- If suction is felt, fault is in the ECU. If suction is not felt, inspect Black/White wire at solenoid to verify voltage. Repair circuit if necessary and repeat step 1).
- If voltage is available, attach vacuum pump to secondary air control valve. With 18 in. Hg vacuum applied, suction should be felt at the air supply hose. If suction is confirmed, replace secondary air control solenoid valve. If not, replace secondary air control valve.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
