cabriolet running rich

1989 VOLKSWAGEN CABRIOLET
85,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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DDIXIEYANKEE
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hey, i just bought a 89 VW cabriolet & it idles up & down, blows black smoke & seems to be using a lot of gas. im thinking it's a sensor but don't want to buy a bunch of stuff just to trouble shoot & still not find the problem. also, it's a manual transmission & the shifter is sloppy. does it just need new bushings possibly ?
May 18, 2011 at 12:58 AM
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RASMATAZ
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Probable causes of an engine running rich are as follows:


1.Excessive fuel pressure can be cause by restricted fuel return line

2.Defective Oxygen Sensors.

3.Leaking injectors and fuel pressure regulator.

4.Coolant temperature sensor out of calibration.

5.Restricted air intake system
Jun 15, 2011 at 6:09 AM
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EXOVCDS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,883 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Broken ground wire on the side of the cylinder head would be the first think I would check for.

The shifter ball on the relay rod is broken.... causing too much play in the shifter.

Thomas
Mar 16, 2012 at 4:07 AM
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