Sputtering/dying

1992 NISSAN 300ZX
193,000 MILES
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Z324LIFE
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My 92 300zx seems to have an intermittent problem with sputtering. At first it only happened in the rain when i was driving 45+ mph. I drove it in the rain one day and i guess i drove through a puddle that was about 4in deep, but i was driving very slow, and it actually sputtered and died. the electrical system is working fine. we took a look and saw that my air intake filter had fallen off and put it back on. the car ran fine after that, but after a few days started having the same sputtering issue. the engine also smelled like someone was barbecuing. i haven't had it checked, but i think my fuel pressure is fine, when i take the cap off there is a hissing sound as if it is very pressurized. before i started having this issue the engine smelled like gas a little, i am not sure if that is related. i have been told to check the maf. it seems to have more issue when i accelerate than under idle. is there anything else i should be checking?
May 20, 2013 at 6:11 PM
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KHLOW2008
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Start with a check for trouble codes and ensure the MAF and air hoses are intact and securely fastened with no vacuum leakages.
May 20, 2013 at 6:26 PM
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Z324LIFE
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I ran codes and got a 34:detonation censor circuit
Would an issue here possibly be causing my issue or should i still check the MAF and hoses?
May 21, 2013 at 6:34 PM
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KHLOW2008
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Code 34 is the knock sensor and yes, it can cause engine performance problems.
May 22, 2013 at 6:52 AM
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