Engine will not idle?

272,994 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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AMBI.SKYE
  • MEMBER
  • 21 POSTS
I adjusted the timing which was extremely off. Now I've got the timing adjusted accordingly and it's all put back together. The car will start as long as I'm pushing the gas pedal down, but it will not idle. While pushing the gas pedal down it runs smoothly but after it drops below a thousand RPMs it seems to choke out and cuts off.
Sep 3, 2022 at 2:50 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi,

Have you checked for engine vacuum leaks? Also, when it idles, do you notice any dark gray smoke from the exhaust? Are there any strange odors? I ask because the fuel pressure regulator may have failed and it's getting too much fuel.

As far as a vacuum leak, here is a link that explains how to check for one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Also, if you have a live data scan tool, let me know what the short-term fuel trim is.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe.
Sep 3, 2022 at 4:44 PM
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