Car lacking power when accelerating

1987 FORD ESCORT
5,800 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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STANDEAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
We bought this car with very low mileage from a lady who basically kept it in a garage for 30 years. It runs great except that it's not getting enough power when you attempt to accelerate anything greater than very gentle acceleration. Basically if you try to gun it, it will sputter and fail to accelerate. This suggests to me that it's not getting enough power from the battery when you ask for more, but I'm not savvy enough to know where that problem is occurring. Any idea where to start? Any help much appreciated.
Oct 14, 2019 at 12:45 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

Most likely, it isn't related to the battery. However, it could be a number of other things. What we need to do first is check for diagnostic trouble codes. This vehicle has an older style diagnostic system, but it isn't hard to use and requires nothing more than a test light. Here is a link that explains how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ford-lincoln-mercury-obd1-1995-and-earlier-diagnostic-trouble-code-definition-and-retrieval

I am suggesting this be done first, otherwise it will become a guessing game for me. Not being there makes it a bit difficult. If there are codes stored, and I suspect there is, they will point me in the right direction rather than throwing parts at it only to find it isn't the problem.

________________________

Let me know what you find or if you need help. I will watch for your reply.

Joe
Oct 14, 2019 at 1:34 PM
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STANDEAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you! This is very helpful! I have a busy work schedule right now, but I'll pick up a test light and get more information and follow up soon!
Oct 22, 2019 at 5:18 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
Welcome back:

You are very welcome. Let me know what you find or if you have questions.

Take care,
Joe
Oct 22, 2019 at 1:56 PM
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