Nissan Repair: Cold start valve on 1996 Nissian Altima, nissan altima gxe, coolant temperature sensor

Question
Hey Calvin,
Its Benjamin again. I haven't had a chance to perform the test you suggested, but have another question before I do. On this car the 1996 Nissan Altima GXE 2.4L engine I am not finding a cold start valve for this vehicle. This probably sounds stupid to you but I'm not familiar with these cars. Would it be called the coolant temperature sensor, (IAT#-Intake air temperature sensor, or would it be the #IAC/AAC)-Idle Air Control/Auxiliary Air Control valve? Also if it was any of these wouldn't the ECM be giving me a check engine light which I would be able to retrieve a trouble code from? Like I said this probably sounds dumb to you but I'm just not sure. I wanted to clarify this with you before I performed the test. Thanx again for the help you advice is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Benjamin -

You are correct. The sensors you mention will activate the CEL, so don't bother checking those if that light is not on.

The cold start valve is usually on the intake boot, with both a wire and fuel line attached to it. However I am not sure but perhaps your year 1996, another system was used.

I apologize, I do not remember what test I asked you to do, but I would remove the intake boot, and prime the engine with starting fluid and see if it starts OK. In the meantime, i will do more research.

Let me know if this works -

aloha
calvin