1991 325ic, ran a bit hard now not running well

conrad · 04:39 PM

Normally I really baby my wifes car, as it is no performer, but yesterday, as i hurried to the bank and I made several trips to the red line in the automatic 325ic. Everything ran well and smooth, until I pulled back in my garage and then the car started to knock loudly and ran like it was missing.

I recently (less than 20k) had the head replaced,

any ideas on where to start? could the timing belt have slipped? if so, now what?

thanks in advance,

conrad

Yurick · 03-12-2009, 01:44 PM

When was the last time spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap/rotor, and timing belt were changed?

conrad · 07:25 PM

i replaced all the wires, plugs, cap, timing belt and injectors appx. 20k ago.

i just started the car and it does idle, but it runs very rough and there is a knocking sound coming from the valve cover area.

i checked the plugs and wires just now. everything is proper. the car idles, does not like to rev up (most likely a good thing to avoid further damage)

other ideas?

Yurick · 03-12-2009, 05:47 PM

What about your timing belt?

mrinfinit3 · 03-13-2009, 12:42 AM

running lean enough for the plug to burn is a serious issue. I know you said you checked the vacuum system. I would suggest buying a vacuum pump and perform a leak down test. Which engine do you have exactly? 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 or 2.5 liter engine or 2.4 liter turbo diesel.

conrad · 03-13-2009, 07:22 PM

the timing belt was also replaced appx 20k ago, or 4 years ago.

I have the 2.5 (m20) engine. when i get home (traveling currently) i will do a compression check with my air compressor, and see if it has any compression.

i will post results,

conrad · 03-22-2009, 11:03 AM

i had a leak down performed. the number 6 cylinder is dead. he thinks the intake valve is stuck open. he then quoted me the engine will need the head pulled/repaired--cost $2000-$2500.

The car is back at home; i will tackle this myself, after i get the 101 projects book, which i just ordered.

Yurick · 03-22-2009, 06:34 PM

$2000 to $2500 sounds awfully steep. You should be able to do it yourself less than half of that.

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

I would budget $1000 for the head gasket replacement. You should be able to buy a couple of special tools and replace some "while you are in there" stuff for that price.

conrad · 04-13-2009, 12:10 PM

Thanks, I will plan for that amount...what type of "while you are in there" items do you recommend?

I emailed PP for a parts list..

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

All the hoses, especially the hard to reach ones.

engine mounts
exhaust mounts

Send out the fuel injectors for testing, cleaning and reconditioning at Cruizin Performance for about $70.