Revs drop on acceleration

Tiny
BRYANUK
  • MEMBER
  • 1994 HONDA CIVIC
  • 1.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 136,200 MILES
Hi!

Car works fine whilst cold, then after a few miles under acceleration from a stand, the revs pick up for a split second before dipping to almost zero. Then a delay of a second before power is restored. Same in neutral or drive.

When coming to a stop, the engine almost shuts off before revs pick up to idle speed.

Fine under light acceleration. Fault also shows up when applying extra gas to increase speed whilst driving.

Any guide much appreciated.

Bryan
Sunday, May 6th, 2018 AT 5:16 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi Bryan and thanks for using 2CarPros.com. Since the issue is happening under a load, I have to question if the fuel pressure is weak and the pump unable to keep up with the fuel demand. What I would suggest is to start by checking fuel pump pressure.

Here is a general video to give you an idea how it is done:
https://youtu.be/peh7-pFycyc

Now to be specific to your vehicle, here are the directions from alldata.

Warning: Do not smoke while working on the fuel system. Keep open flames or sparks away from the work area. Be sure to relieve fuel pressure while the engine is off .

Relieve fuel pressure.
Disconnect the battery negative cable from the battery.
Remove Fuel Filler Cap.
Use a box end wrench on the 6mm service bolt at the Fuel Rail, while holding the special banjo bolt with another wrench.
Loosen The Service Bolt

Place a rag or shop towel over the 6mm service bolt.
SLOWLY loosen the 6mm service bolt one complete turn.
Remove the service bolt on the Fuel Filter while holding the banjo bolt with another wrench and attach the fuel pressure gauge.
Clamping Pressure Regulator Hose And Measuring Fuel Pressure

Reconnect the battery Negative cable.
Start the engine. Measure the fuel pressure with the engine idling and the vacuum hose of the Fuel Pressure Regulator disconnected.
PRESSURE AT IDLE SHOULD BE: 280 - 330 kPa (40 - 47 psi)

NOTE: If the engine will not start, turn the Ignition Switch on, wait for two seconds, turn it off, then back on again and read the fuel pressure.

Reconnect the vacuum hose to the Fuel Pressure Regulator.
PRESSURE AT IDLE SHOULD BE: 215 - 265 kPa (31 - 38 psi)

If the fuel pressure is not as specified, first check the fuel pump. If the pump is okay, check the following:
If pressure is higher than specified:
Pinched, collapsed, or clogged fuel return hose or piping
Faulty Fuel Pressure Regulator
If pressure is lower than specified:
Clogged Fuel Filter
Fuel Pressure Regulator failure
Leakage in the fuel system

The aforementioned directions provide possible causes based on your findings. Additionally, I have attached two pictures for you. They show where and how to check pressure on your car. You will need to get a pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you. Additionally, the directions list the fuel pressure you should have.

I really hope this helps you.

Cheers,
Joe
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Sunday, May 6th, 2018 AT 8:50 PM
Tiny
BRYANUK
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Joe,

Thank you for the detailed information. I will enlist the help of a friend, who has a pressure gauge, to assist me in checking.

I can hear the fuel system pressurizing when I turn the ignition, but maybe it is too low.

Cheers,
Bryan
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Monday, May 7th, 2018 AT 1:48 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Bryan:
That is my thought exactly at this point. Keep in mind, a partially plugged fuel filter can also cause problems for you. I hope it works out for you.

Joe
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Monday, May 7th, 2018 AT 7:12 PM

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