Hey, having some problems with my 85 Camaro. It is a 2.8L 5-speed. It seems to be a intermittent problem. The car runs good sometimes, mostly when I first start it up cold until it gets hot. When it isn't running so well, the idle is very low, around 500 rpms, and it is very difficult to drive, and shift smoothly. I think the timing might be off, when the car is running rough i hear pining or preignition from the engine. (I don't really know which is which) It just recently started throwing a code 24, vehicle speed sensor. It has had the problem before it flashed the code. Last night the car stalled at a light, but thankfully started back up, it never stalled before.

Parts that I have changed in the last year or so include ignition coil, module, distributor, distributor cap and rotor, throttle position sensor, AIS motor, EGR valve, MAF sensor, upstream O2 sensor, plugs and wires. I'm trying to get the car running like a top before winter, but can't afford to spend another $500-$1000 at a mechanic shop. I am somewhat mechanically inclined, I did a lot of the work I listed above. Any ideas what I can test/change/adjust. Thanks for any help

Joe

 

Curious.... specifically what Spark plugs are you using?

Also, you said you may have a timing issue. I agree, have you checked it according to your hood decal?

 

I used NGK plugs....and don't think I even have a decal, I'm pretty sure it's not the original hood

 

You may enjoy this.....results of timing by ear.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yy-yYTHuOhM

About those plugs. If I were you I'd put AC delco plugs in it as close to the original
issuesd with the car as possible. Go back to the original tested design.
I took a older 3.3L Buick and installed platnium plugs with poor result. Just didn't
sound right... poor idle, pings and all. Went back to original AC Delco problem solved.

Have you tried a fuel treatment like Lucas upper Cylinder Lubricant or Seafoam?
Both have smooothed out the idle for me in the past as well.

 

haha awesome video! I love my 2.8, its a lot of fun. I never thought there was a big difference with the plugs, i heard NGK were among the best, so i put em in. I did seafoam the engine not too long ago, it did smooth it out, but still has some minor problem. I really think its something small and stupid or an adjustment of something.

Thanks man