Re: [ihc] Weird engine problem - calling the experts

["James Lidberg" <jameslidberg@xxxxxxxxx>]

> I have removed the EGR and put a plate over the opening. Could this be 
> causing the problem?

Not if it is sealed correctly. One side has exhaust, the other has manifold vacuum, they need to be separate. I did 
this too, to troubleshoot, to eliminate any possibility of the EGR port leaking vacuum or exhaust. I had also capped 
off *all* other vacuum ports including the PCV valve and brake booster, to track down the vacuum leak.

> >Vacuum leak.  Get a can of starting fluid, some use WD40....
> I've also heard you can use propane to do this. Has anyone tried this?

I have heard of it, it is recommended I guess. I use carb cleaner. Gotta be carefull to not start a fire!!!

> >Another point to check would be distributor function...
> Yes, that is something I will check out. Maybe I will just get a new 
> distributor. Anyone have any good sources for these? Can I just order one 
> from NAPA?

Well that costs money, why not diagnose the problem?

In my case the engine was run way too hot on the trail, wound up driving about 6 hours on 2 gallons of coolant, blowing 
steam o goos part of that time, after that it was running lean, too much NOx during emissions tests, ran rough, pulling 
the plug wire on one cylinder hardly made any difference, spraying carb cleaner found a vacuum leak, bla bla bla. 
Pulled the intake, found a couple expansion plugs almost burnt through, the exhaust ports almost completely plugged, 
the machine shop said it was about 3 thou off, not enough to need machining, but I used DyeChem to find the high spots 
and a file to take them down, carefully sealed the intake gaskets and torqued it down carefully. It ran better, but 
then the carb was suspect. Bought a new 1400? emission style, ran great out of the box with all the emissions stuff 
installed and working.

I would buy a vacuum gauge and check the vacuum first before tearing anything apart, and check the timing and spark 
quality and fuel delivery system. Is the fuel pump delivering enough fuel - not sucking air from cracked or broken 
hose/tubes? Maybe bring it to someplace that can computer diagnose it.

ps I think you said the compression was between 120 to 150 psi. All the cylinders should be within 10 per cent.




**************
Jim In Mesa - James Lidberg
jameslidberg@domain.elided
'79 Scout II/4X4/345/Edelbrock 1400/727/D20/3.07 open/PS/PB/4"Trailmaster
Copyright 2004 All rights reserved