87 iroc 5.0 131,000 auto trans.

Starts fine, Idles fine in park or neutral. When you put it in gear it will stall out shortly if you don't give it gas. It runs well during motion, stalls out at red lights etc. The ecm does not show any codes. The owner says this problem has been consistant for the 3 years he has owned it. It was a sunday driver maybe only driven twice a month.

I am thinking of purchasing this car but want to know what I am in for. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

 

Check timing, ignition system sounds either off or fouled. How old is the fuel in the car?

 

I don't know exactly how old the gas is probably not more than a month and a half. He drives the car a few times a month and takes it to shows or for a sunday drive. But he says this problem existed when he bought the car 3 years ago.

This car idles fine in park or in neutral. It had a tuneup plugs, wires, filters, and fluids and belts less than 3,000 miles ago.

 

Any codes? Try tapping on the MAF to see if the engine studders, or unplugging it altogether to see any difference in the response. What about coil? Checked timing with a timing light after unplugging the tan wire? My first check would still be timing, if it had it 3 year ago and he hasn't bothered to dive into the problem he might not know what to do in the first place. Things like this dont just appear and become normal. After that start checking the fuel delivery system, check fuel pressure and do a resistance check on the injectors.

 

Don't forget to check the IAC.

 

No codes.

I forgot to mention it smokes a little on startup, bluish white. I figure it's just a little oil seeping through the seals since they are original with 131k, and not related to the stalling, but if it helps..

 

That sounds like valve seals or valve guides.

 

The car starts and idles fine. It ONLY happens when the car is in gear.

Could this be the torque converter?

 

Whether or not its in gear, any one of the things could be a potential problem. If it was the torque converter, then you would know. They are built to withstand a lot of abuse and can blow themselves up internally, if it was then it is doubtful it would move at all. Best bet is to check the engine and don't always rely on what someone else says when picking up a car.

 

any ideas? i'm gonna have to pass on this deal if theres no resolution.