E85 cold start issues

[Cagz]

Hey guys,

I've got a 2010 XR6 turbo.
Recently, I have just gotten my car tuned with e85. I am aware that e85 does cause some pain for cold starts. In the mornings, I do have to crank it and give it some time to start. Usually works on the second or third time. This morning was really strange.. felt like the power cut off then went back on as the key was on start position and then the dash displayed an airbag fault.

I feel like it's taking longer each day. What is the "normal" duration for my car to start on e85? I did get a multi tune so I can switch to 98 during winter but that would defeat the purpose of the e85 tune.

Thanks!

[k31th]

those symtoms point to a dying/dead battery... normal is similar to stock if you've got a decent E85 tuner that cares about your car's behaviour

[Cagz]

Thanks for the quick reply.

If the car takes some time to start up would that eventually damage the starter motor or something else?

[k31th]

yeah, it'll wear at the starter motor gears and the flywheel, but I can't imagine you'll do a lot of damage in a short amount of time.

[Tom Tucker]

My e85 crank time sounds similar to yours. Maybe 8-10 secs. Pretty normal, but I agree, it could be tuned better. Only to a point though, such is e85

[Cagz]

Have you tried priming the fuel pump or is that bad for the car?

[Puffwagon]

It's been cold lately so if the tune isn't set up to start and run well immediately post start in the colder weather, there will be cranking and drivability issues.

 

An E85 vehicle should start as quickly as a 98 powered vehicle. If it doesn't then the tune needs fixing.

[bossmang]

get the tune touched up for the cold start

[ilk]

sh*t tuner. I've never had e85 cold start problems. Starts like normal on e85.