* Indirect Relationship: The throttle body's primary function is to regulate airflow into the engine. While a malfunctioning throttle body (e.g., sticking, vacuum leaks, dirty throttle plate) can affect air/fuel mixture, it's more likely to cause general running problems like poor idle, hesitation, or stalling, rather than specifically warm-engine misfires.
* More Likely Culprits: Warm-engine misfires often point to issues that are temperature-dependent, such as:
* Ignition System: Worn spark plugs, failing ignition coil(s), or a weak distributor cap and rotor are much more common causes of misfires that worsen with heat.
* Fuel System: Fuel delivery problems (fuel pump weakening with heat, clogged fuel filter, failing fuel injectors) can also manifest as misfires when the engine is warm.
* Sensor Issues: Failing sensors (like the oxygen sensor or coolant temperature sensor) can lead to incorrect air/fuel mixtures, especially once the engine reaches operating temperature.
How a Throttle Body *Might* Contribute: If the throttle body is sticking slightly when warm (due to thermal expansion or buildup), it could cause a lean condition (not enough fuel) that leads to misfires. However, this is less common than the other issues listed above.
In short: While not impossible, a faulty throttle body is relatively low on the list of probable causes for warm-engine misfires on a 1987 Chevy Celebrity. A more thorough diagnostic process focusing on the ignition and fuel systems, and sensor readings, would be necessary to pinpoint the actual problem.
