Cold start cable operation

[MadCityMike]

Is it normal to need to use the cold start advance cable when the engine is cold and it's about 60 degrees F out?   My AAZ will start without it, but idles so poorly that I pull it out anyways just get it to stay running.    Once the motor warms up a little I push it back in and all is good.    Just wondering if this is normal, or should I only need the cold start cable in the winter?    Also, does it do any harm to just leave it out all the time?    The previous owner said he always just left it out.

Mike

[TDForNow]

Not normal, either the pump timing is set wrong (not enough static advance) or the motor has low compression.

I'd immediately check the timing belt too, if the P/O thought this was normal, how well did he care for the car?

Good luck!

Alain

[HP]

check the glowplugs.