Re[2]: 1988 90q performance variations

[KSMITH1@mailgw.sanders.lockheed.com]

In your case, I would pick the cat to look at first.  When one failed 
on my Scirocco, it definately gagged the car.  (But it had collapsed 
partially and blocked the exhaust.)  On my 10V, I don't have a rev 
problem.  Rather, the acceleration is less than I experienced on a 
like car.  I haven't really started digging yet, although removing the 
plug I discovered in the heated air path into the air cleaner did 
improve acceleration.  (Here in New Hampshire in the winter, the air 
is always below 50F.)


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re: 1988 90q performance variations
Author:  <mbenno@MR.Net> at INTERNET
Date:    3/12/97 9:24 PM


I have had the same problem for nearly two years, my revs almost seem 
restricted. additionally, my gas mileage is down.

I've explained this problem to my mechanic and we have tried to replace 
several components (O2 sensor, Fuel Filter, plugs, rotor, air filter) but 
still the problem persists. They even tried to find a vacuum leak. They say 
the car is tight as a drum, however, my mileage is down to 16.8 mpg from 
about 19.8 mpg for the same driving.

The only other possible area I can think of is the Mass Air Flow sensor, 
but at $240 for replacement it seems a little high to just find out....

Someone suggested that I may have a partially clogged cat, this possible?

I am interested in your problem and I wonder if it is related.....if you 
come up with any solutions let me know. I am about ready to give up on the 
mechanics.

Michael Benno
90q20v


> 
> I have recently driven a 1988 90q 5 speed, 10V (of course), that is 
> effectively (and apparently) identical to mine, in equipment and 
> mileage  It seems peppier (freer and faster revving), on both part and 
> full throttle.  I use premium unleaded gas.  My O2 sensor and fuel 
> pump were recently changed, and air filter last fall.  My car does not 
> manifest any of the obvious signs of catalytic converter gagging.  My 
> understanding is that the ignition timing is computer controlled and 
> thus presumably the same for each car.  Is this true?  Is there a 
> knock sensor that could be defective and improperly retarding the 
> spark?  The dark look of my exhaust pipe would suggest I'm not running 
> lean, in general.  I haven't yet done a compression test.  Is there 
> anything in particular I should look for? 
>