Weird running 86 4KCSQ

["Merlyn Plotz" <MERLYNP@tc-mankato.scm.tec.mn.us>]

HELP!

This car (86 4KCSQ) has a mind of its own. Sometimes I can
go for weeks without any problems, but, then - out of the blue
crazyness! The nearest dealer is about 90 miles away, so 
problems exist getting there while the beast is acting up. 
There is a local shop that works on this stuff (notice that I
said Works on -- not necessarily the same as Fixes). Their
mode of operation seems to be putting on this piece or that 
piece from salvage cars until they think its fixed. Obviously,
this leaves much to be desired - It is my son's car, and as 
a working college student, this can make him (and me) poor
rapidly.

The symptoms;
1. Needs to be cranked a long time on a cold start 
    (10 - 15 sec).
2. Does some RPM hunting after it starts - cycles
    3 or 4 times before settling out.
3. After driving 6 or 8 blocks, the car will idle very
    roughly. Sound as if only half of the cylinders are
    firing - only when the want to. Sounds as if the 
    timing is off - Bang! Pop! Sput! Choke!
4. Trying to rev the engine produces no dependable 
    power. Only when I floor the accelerator can I get
    the RPMS to build to any extent.
5. Sometimes it will then clear its throat and run reasonably
    good. Until the next time.

YES! I've heard about the AUDI GODS, but, please tell me
of some mechanical / electrical types of things that might
narrow the search field.

Merlyn
********************************
Merlynp@tc-mankato.scm.tec.mn.us
South Central technical College
Ph. (507)389-7252
FAX (507)388-9951
********************************