Hello all,

320 k and my first serious engine issue turns up (I'm ignoring the lumpy idle I've endured for about 5 years).

Proble began suddenly a few weeks back. Under acceleration (hard or easy) engines sounds and feels like one cylinder has gone dead. Stutters a few times, then comes to life on all four for a while. Within a few seconds, starts missing again and the problem comes and goes.

So far: plugs, wires, cap and rotor. Wiggle test for vacuum leaks.

Ideas?

 

check the plug wires aren't anywhere close to engine metal.
check carb jets are clear, accel pump works and isn't leaking

 

hmmm...cold engine or at operating temperature?

 

start here.... http://www.bluebassdesign.com/boonin/carb_faq/
cure the lumpy idle and see what that fixes. then check for vacuum leaks with a propane torch (UNLIT!!!!!) if idle changes then u have a leak in the area. after that i would check the egr system. my old 87 had similar issues and it was the egr and vacuum hoses. good luck

 

Thanks for the advice all!

Miss is there all the time. Good question.

Re: plug wires, want to do the "look at them in the dark" trick, but dark is getting harder and harder to find these days. Usually go over to Dracula's house and borrow his cape, but he's been busy.

Tore into the EGR last year and it was TOTALLY plugged. Expected great things, but nothing changed. That was before the current problem.

No doubt way, way overdue for taking the carb apart. No indication it has ever been rebuilt.

Will check that link and report back. I understand obtaining the proper carb kit may be a bit of a challenge.

Muchas gracias!

 

Forgot to mention, the fuel filter was replaced as well. Great rejoicing when I cut the old one open and it was full of crap. No change in engine performance :-(.