Random slow start, flooded #1 cylinder, '94 850

[franckfolk]

My 1994 850 wagon has been running too rich at random, with fits of sluggishness and nasty combustion smells (see my post from last week)

My mechanic replaced the cam sensor after detecting a code. The new sensor has improved the general performance, but not solved the core problem. He says the #1 cylinder continues to flood. Also, I'm having a hard time turning the car over about half the time.

His plan is to check for a leaky injector next week. Could that solve both problems? As a non-mechanic, I think I understand how a leaky injector causes the flooding, but what does it have to do with a slow start? Isn't that a problem of too little gas, not too much?

Also, could my problem be related to the fuel pump relay?

Any other ideas? Thanks.

[Guest]

Many threads around here blame running too rich or poor gas mileage on bad O2 sensors (I think there are 2) and/or a bad MAF (Mass Air Flow?) sensor. Have your mechanic check out those. Apparently, sometimes you can get temporary relief from a malfunctioning MAF by tapping on it but the problem eventually returns. Both can be replaced fairly easily if you are a do-it-yourselfer. Been meaning to do those myself but haven't gottten around to it which is dumb since I'm wasting mucho $ on extra gas. Can't help you on the iffy starting problem (is it feul or spark related?) which is one problem I've never had, fortunately Oh no, I just jinxed myself...