Hesitation,rough Running.

[Guest arte et marte]

Hi, need some advice,my 2.3 auto has started to die occasionally after starting and when in the engine is under load ie going uphill or accelerating at low revs it feels as if the ignition is being retarded,theres a distinct lack of Torque and it feels very hesitant.it also seems to be running a bit rough.it feels as if its going to die,but so far has always picked up again,if i boot it and use the kickdown on the auto box its fine because of the higher revs.

I have disconnected the MAF sensor and it made it run worse so i think that thats not the problem.

Would be very gratefull if anyone had any suggestions. I noticed the fuel pump has become a bit noisy but i think that would effect fueling more at high revs than low.

Help!

[Guest SA Intruder]

MAF sensor problems don't generally afflict the petrol engines.

 

The most likely cause is ignition related. The leads and the coil pack breakdown under light load, where they do most work (the energy required to ignite a weak mixture is far higher than a rich mixture).

 

I would start by carefully checking these items for tracking, and if the leads are old, change them. Obviously the plugs need to be spot on too.

 

I doubt whether you have a fuelling problem as such, but the second area to check would certainly be an air leak on the inlet side; favourites are the various vac hoses, the PCV valve and breather hoses and the EGR/air pump if fitted to your MY.

 

If not, then there are other checks...

[charles]

also check the 12V wires to the ignition coil. They are taped, but the isolationof the wires can crack because of the heat, causing inter. shortage.

[Guest arte et marte]

Thanks fellas.