ayonnebay

I've noticed the past few days, that when I start my '98 ES (116k) in the am, that it idles high and there is a sound, like a "fast putt-putting" that seems to come from the engine compartment - almost like a small hole is in the muffler, yet it's coming from under the hood ( I think). If it was some sort of small exhaust leak, why would idle speed increase in the mornings ? That's why I'm sort of ruling exhaust out. Car seems to run fine - except for that sound, which is annoying.

I looked, and can see/find nothing obvious. Is anybody familiar with those symptoms ?

92ES5sp

The high idle when cold is normal. Its supposed to be that way I promise. Id start by checking vacuum lines and check the intake tube for cracks. Spray brake cleaner on every vacuum lines you can possibly get at and if the engine surges or bogs, theres you problem

ayonnebay

" Spray brake cleaner on every vacuum lines you can possibly get at and if the engine surges or bogs, theres you problem "

I visually checked all the vacuum lines I could find - nothing obviously wrong. I have to say that I don't understand the brake cleaner thing (I haven't worked under the hood of a car in years, but I'm willing to try that). What does the brake cleaner do?

Thanks.

92ES5sp

When you spray it on a leak it will make the engine rpms rise. The lines do get brittle over time; when i did my valve covers i had 2 cracked lines and didnt even know it until i pulled the plenum off. Theres a ton a vacuum lines under the hood.

Pheonix

define "high rpms" if it's under 2000rpm it's fine. Toyota just likes blipping the throttle to get the oil pressure up quickly right after cranking.

the put put put. exhaust leak. gaskets or the flex pipe on the y-pipe most likely.