I have a 1986 Trans Am with a 305 TPI and auto trans. The car starts up (sometimes after a couple tries) but runs great while in park. This is usually in the morning after the car has been sitting overnight. From here on is when I get confused. When I put the car into gear (reverse or drive) the idles drops lower and the car sounds like it wants to stall. There is a little hesitation but as the car warms up this goes away and it runs fine. Now I'm experiencing an additional problem, after driving the car (reasonable hard but not redlining every shift, just some spirited driving) and i slow down to the a light the idle drops very low. It will hover between 400-600 and be on the verge of stalling. I shift into neutral and give it gas to keep it going then shift into drive to pull away. It drives fine but when i slow down for a light it wants to stall. I don't know if these two issues are related. I really need the help. I just bought the car and love it but can't afford to take it somewhere. I'm a newbie when it comes to fixing problems like this so any help is really appreciated.

 

Is the SES light on any codes? Check the timing and check for vacuum leaks.

 

I just went it to start it up and the service engine light is now on. I need to go buy a scanner tommorow to get the code. I'm thinking it might be good the light is on so I can get a code to diagnose?

 

You don't need a scanner to check for codes use a paper clip. http://www.extreme-check-engine-ligh...%20Decoder.htm

 

thanks alot, its throwing code 34- map sensor signal out of range, low