Hi -- looking for help. I have a 88 245 with 170,000 miles. When the weather is cold, it has a tremendously difficult time turning over. Car cranks, and cranks and cranks. This kills me because I know I am probably taxing the hell out of my starter motor andprobably flooding the cylinders as I intermittantly try jamming the accelator in the hopes that it will "catch." The battery is less than 1 year old, and alternator is only 2 weeks old. Could it be the "cold start valve?" I have been reading up on the Board, but can't determine if the 88 even has a cold start valve. (Guess that's my first question.) If it does, is this something that a rookie mechanice (myself) could replace on my own?? Could it be the air mass meter? (last replaced at 130k)...starter/ignition module? Ignition coil?

Second question, how often should you clean out the throttle body? Mine was last done also at 130k.

Last question -- this will demonstrate my ineptitude -- since my car is a standard transmission, is there anyway to even check transmission fluids? Is that something I should periodically be replacing??

Sorry for the barage of questions. I like my car, and can't afford to saddle up and pay for leasing a new car. Need to keep her running! Thanks!!!!!