Engine Problem 87 Maxima

[slotwheeler]

Well, my '87 stock 6 cylinder Maxima has an engine problem I've yet to be able to diagnose. Most noticeable at cold - when started, and the idle drops down, the engine has what seems to be drop outs. It will continuously drop engine RPM's - quick drops outs that at times shake the steering wheel, and even kill the engine. When the engine warms, it is much less noticeable, but you can still see, and hear, then engine having periodic drops in the RPM's. Any ideas? I've replaced the plug wires and cap already. Thanks.
Modified by slotwheeler at 7:07 PM 12/26/2007

[coolhand]

Try the idle air control value. I had the same problem on my 87. It is on the upper part of the intake facing the firewall.

[mtcookson]

I would also look for vacuum leaks. They tend to cause idle issues, and they tend to be common on cars of old age as the rubber gets too hard and just breaks.

[slotwheeler]

Couldn't find an idle air control valve in the repair manual - would it be the air injector valve (AIV) control solenoid valve located up next to the brake fluid reservoir? I'm also going to check all the vacuum hoses.

[coolhand]

Yes I think thats it. Also, check around the Mass Air Flow sensor tube for cracks.