3.2 surge, bucking etc.

[ClickClickBoom]

Well,
The troubleshooting drama has been put to bed. The initial problem was generally poor running below 2k, bouncy, erratic idle, misfire causing black smoke out of the exhaust on initial throttle tip in, the dreaded 3.2 bucking issue, and a few more that weren’t big enough to mention, like after firing in the exhaust.
I chased every known issue causer like the CHT sensor, ICV, fuel injectors, intake manifold gaskets, valve adjustment, potential vacuum leaks, and AFM.
What I did not do is confirm continuity through the AFM connector. The FSM has a troubleshooting/diagnostic section. When I was doing the AFM diagnostic protocol, it became obvious that there were 2 female receptacles that weren’t level with the others.
After pushing them towards the AFM, there was a click, and they were even with the others. Started the car and it was the car that I had before the bucking ill running era.
I have to admit, all the stuff I did was in essence deferred maintenance, that caught me with my Covid mask fouled.
The FSM section on connections was very informative in conjunction with the AFM section.
Every single plug that is used for low voltage connections could be a problem that few look at closely, me included.
When doing diagnostics and troubleshooting, logic should be the primary direction tool.
If I had looked at the symptoms in their totality, I would have gone directly to electronic engine management systems and wiring, not doing all the mechanical stuff that was needed, but because I did it out of ignorance, it is a neutral. The biggest takeaway was the problem was semi-intermittent. There were plenty of secondary symptoms that obscured the actual problems.
My diagnostic and troubleshooting skills have deteriorated due to lack of use(too much YouTube).
Looks like I will be in the peasant parking area at Rennsport with the Ladas and KIAs. My car will not be killing mosquitoes.
Cheers