Mitsubishi Repair: Engine Stalling, mass air sensor, throttle position sensor


Question
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Followup To
Question -
I've got a 1994 Galant GS, 2.4L SOHC, automatic transmission and the engine stalls.  I have replaced the distributor cap/rotor, spark plugs and wires, and fuel filter.  I have also checked the timing.  I have also replaced the ECM module.  At times the car will run for several minutes and at others around 20-30 minutes before stalling.  Right before or possibly right after [as it seems to occur quickly] it stalls, I hear a clicking noise [a relay openeing or closing] that appears to be coming from inside the car.  This relay is mounted to the drivers side of the metal bracket that holds the radio in the center console.  I don't know if this relay is the culprit, but what else can I look for or replace?
Answer -
John,
That clicking noise may be coming from your ECM relay.  If you didn't replace that relay when you replaced your ECM, you may want to check that out.  That relay is attact the bracket holding your ECM; which is located behind your radio.  Check that first.

You should also check your fuel pump and pump relay.  If your fuel pressure is too low due a weak pump, that can also cause the problems you're experiencing.
Good luck!

Follow up question:
Thank you for the response.  I was running the car today [it happens to be about 38 degrees out with a light rain/snow mix today] and after about 20 minutes the car idle was going from about 1000 RPM to about 1600 RPM back and forth.  When I tried to press the accelerator and hold the RPM at about 2000 RPM, I could not as it kept dropping back to around 1200 then back up.  Is this the fuel pressure regulator, the fuel pump or both?  

Answer
John,
You should now focus on your Idle Air Controller valve(IAC), your Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), your Fast Idle Air Valve (FIAV), your throttle body, and you throttle cable.    All of those items are responsible in some way of maintaining your idle speed.  Another thing to check would be your mass air sensor (MAS).  There are sensors located where your air filter is attached that send signals to your ECM, which measure air flow entering your engine.  If any of those sensors are sending false readings, your car will have idling problems.

Your fuel pressure regulator and your fuel pump should be checked.  If you want to check these items yourself, you should be able to find a Haynes or Chiltons servie manual to help you troubleshoot if you do not already have one.  

If you have a little time, a service manual, and a multimeter (availble at any hardware store for as little as $10), you can check all those items I've mentioned.  Hopefully you'll be able to pinpoint your problem.
Good luck!