86 Carrera just seems to lack response

[kbruz]

I've been having some problems with my 86 carrera lately. The car seems to lack response under hard acceleration. It seems sluggish. Doesn't sputter or kick, just is not fluid. I drove my friends stock 79SC with a 3.0 and the acceleration was very smooth and powerful.

Any suggestions? Does this make sense?

[jester911]

Well this may not have anything to do with it but I just changed the plugs on mine and man it sure made a difference. The old plugs didn't look that bad but it sure does run better.

[island911]

Originally posted by kbruz
I've been having some problems with my 86 carrera lately. The car seems to lack response under hard acceleration. It seems sluggish. Doesn't sputter or kick, just is not fluid. I drove my friends stock 79SC with a 3.0 and the acceleration was very smooth and powerful.

The SCWDP did NOT have anything to do with this! . . .and I'll resist the opportunity.

Changing the plugs is a good idea, it also gives you a chance to see if all the cylinders are firing equally. The timing could be a problem spot, or something as simple as a leaky vacuum hose.
"just is not fluid" a real vague problem; you may need more diagnosis. . . .or a DME relay(?)

[ChrisL]

Good compression/leakdown? When was the last complete tuneup (plugs, wires ($$$), cap, rotor, air and fuel filters, valve lash adjustment)? Should scream after 4000 rpm. You're not keeping the revs down, are you? Not much there until you get to 4k.

Chris.

[Doug Zielke]

Originally posted by kbruz
I drove my friends stock 79SC with a 3.0 and the acceleration was very smooth and powerful.

Unlike my commrade, Doktor island, I *cannot* resist the opportunity.........
Muhahahahaha!!!


(Try running through a couple of bottles of Techron, driving in a spirited fashion. Maybe all your sluggish 3.2 needs.)

[efhughes3]

KB:

You need to change your wording next time. The way you posed the question gave these SC guys big heads!

I think ChrisL has the right idea, make sure the engines in proper tune. At about 4K, you should really feel the pull. Since it does come on at higher R's, all of the components need to be proper.

I just changed my air filter today, and my 3.2 was VERY "fluid"!

[island911]

Originally posted by efhughes3
. . .The way you posed the question gave these SC guys big heads!. .

Oh, no. Not to worry. . .we had big heads looonng before his post. After all, we have the SuperCarreras.

[nostatic]

if you 3.2 guys are going to tee it up like that, how can we resist takin' a whack?

Techron and some 4-6K workout (do it in 2nd gear on the freeway so you're not speeding too much)

[ChrisBennet]

Does the car have a cat?
-Chris

[stlrj]

How old is the 02 sensor? Clogged injectors? Bad plugs?

Take your pick...anyone could spell trouble in the pep dept.

Joe

[marcesq]

If you want to rule out the O2 sensor, unplug it and drive it making sure that you obtain regular operating temp. If you are still having problems, check ignition components, next. You can check the timing, but can't adjust it thanks to the DME.

Let us know what happens, and don't worry about those 3.0ers, they just wish they had 3.2 problems.

[kbruz]

Thanks for all of the information. I have a pretty comprehensive list for next weekend to check out.