So I've been having some issues lately with the engine. It pops when I accelerate, and there is a constant clicking noise, similar to a stuck lifter. I used some Marvel Mystery Oil to try and fix it, but it has yet to do anything. Also, my idle is very low, 800-1000 rpm no load, 300-600 with load. Most of the time, the car dies a few seconds after I shift into reverse or drive.

On the plus side, for those of you who followed my cooling thread, I've fixed it. The car no longer overheats, it just doesn't run very well...

 

You ever mess with the timing? Popping and clicking could be pre-ignition. Just something to check.

 

yes the popping is the timing off....and your idle seems fine..but 300 is low..way low..do a full tune up as a starting point

 

So we took apart a bit of the engine to start a full tune-up. Replaced the spark plugs and the spark plug wires first, then the distributor cap and rotor, and the condenser. Took off the valve covers and reapplied the gaskets, and thought, what the hell, let's check the valves and make sure they all work right. Fired it up and checked it out, and the exhaust valve on 5,6, and 7 are not moving at all. Further investigation will be taking place, but we will most likely be replacing the whole engine with another one, seeing as we are getting tired of this engine misbehaving.

Oh, and I have never messed with the timing. It has been making a popping sound since I got it, just been more pronounced the past week or so.

We are going to lift the engine out and take a look at the cam before we start getting serious. Seeing as this engine is a pretty worn 180,000 mile engine, we may just replace it with a 45,000 mile engine that has been very well maintained. We'll see.

Anything you guys have to say at all, any advice regarding my engine is always very welcome. I will take whatever advice you guys can give me. Thank you so far for what I have gotten.