1996 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 73

Manual transmission The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL (N).'Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won't start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that's a safety feature. Starting Your 3800 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idlespeed will go down as your engine gets warm. 3. If your engine still won't start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the'pedal down for fiveor six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. After waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the normal starting procedure. NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. I you add electrical f parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before .adding electrical equipment, check withyour dealer. If you don't, your engine might not perform properly. I you ever have tohave your vehicle towed, see f the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See c 6 T o ~ g Your Vehicle" in the Index. I NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery tobe drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. 2. If it doesn't start right away, hold your key in START for about three to five seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery. 2-24