1997 Chevy Camaro Engine hesitation

TODAMAXXX

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET CAMARO

Engine Performance problem
1997 Chevy Camaro 6 cyl Automatic

Just had the radiator replaced with thermostat and cooling switch. Car was given by family friend and needs maintenance on it (ex: oil change and tune up) When driven the car putt-putts when giving gas. When foot was released frm pedal it rode really smooth. Also no more than a week prior to this I was waiting in a drive thru and the car started to putt-putt and shut off. It cranked back up but when waiting at lites it would putt and try to shut off. When I first got the car, when the fuel hit a quarter tank it would behave like that and shut off until I gased above. Im hearing the maintenance and fuel filter. Not sure about mileage cuz a new 98 engine was put in recently

1 Reply

ERNEST CLARK

MECHANIC
1,730 POSTS

The first thing to check is the "Check Engine" light. If that is on, then you should take it to AutoZone or any major parts store and ask them to hook your computer to their scanner. It's free.

Once you get the trouble codes, ask them for the definitions, then that will give you a place to start.

If the "Check Engine" light is not on, then you need to perform a basic tune up first. (Spark plugs/wires, distributor cap and rotor, air/fuel filters)

If this doesn't cure your hesitations and "put-putting", then I'd have the fuel pump, injectors and fuel regulator looked at.

Unfortunately, if yours turns out to be a fuel problem, then only a trained mechanic will have the necessary diagnostic skills to track down the problem correctly.

Whatever you do, don't just replace parts, hoping to hit the jack-pot. That will only cost you money, and more than likely, leave you with the same problem.

Remember, engine related driveability problems can usually be traced to either fuel or spark. On very rare occasions, will your computer be at fault. But with the year of your car, and seeing as though you replaced a 97 motor with a 98, it is a slight possibility that the computer doesn't match with the sensors, ignition module, or fuel injectors.