I have an 86 Iroc Camaro with the 5.0 LB9.

I have replaced these parts so far.

Distributor Cap
Rotor
Ignition Coil
Spark Plug Cables
Spark Plugs
o2 Sensor

Also the aluminum tube that is connected from the catalytic converter that runs into the engine bay is crushed a is gashed. What possible problems could this cause?

As soon as it starts up it will run fine for the first minute. Then the RPMs will drop slowly and in tune with the misfire. It is also running rich. There is a loud ticking that begins as soon as the misfires do. It sounds like its coming from the middle of the block and not from either head.

I was reading through some threads and I have seen recommendations to test injectors but nothing in detail about the procedure. It also mentions to check for codes, how do I do that?

Also it mentions that valves could also cause it to run rich. Could this be caused by a loose timing chain.

It also looks like the PO did a sloppy thermostat change. Could a coolant temperature sensor cause it to run rich.

Are there any other things I can check?

 

It sounds like your misfire starts when the ECM tries to go into closed-loop operation. In closed-loop the ECM adjusts fuel based on feedback from the O2 sensor. If you have an exhaust leak before the O2 sensor, or a vacuum leak, that can cause problems like you describe when running in closed-loop.

there are many checks you can do in troubleshooting to narrow down and confirm what is either a problem or not a problem.
Datalogging makes this process go a lot faster, and produces better quality information.

the engine running rich, or extremely lean can cause black smoke in the exhaust and a raw fuel smell. Each condition causes misfires.

Having an 86 model you have a cold-start injector and so have a few extra things to check/troubleshoot.

 

Yes I was reading something on the engine staying in open-loop. I drove it around a bit just now and the misfires are not really noticeable while driving 30-40 mph but can be heard during idle. I was reading something about some cars needing a heated o2 sensor.

I believe that I can hear a vaccum leakin somewhere but I cannot trace it down.

The engine running rich is not as bad after the new parts but is still there.

When I try to check for codes is it the AB pins slots or the AE pin slots on an 86.

 

http://sethirdgen.org/dtc.htm

Datalogging will show if your O2 is a problem.
There are many other things to check though.

What do your plugs look like?

 

Its probably a spark plug wire causing to mis fire. A bad o2 will not cause a misfire. Car will just stay in open loop with a bad o2 most of the time.

 

You need to datalog to find that out or use a Wide band o2 sensor.

 

The problem was being caused by a vacuum leak at the 9th injector. Also distributor was turned too far and timing was off. Also PO used dexcool in the cooling system. The coolant temperature sensor was caked in orange mud. Also pintle caps were basically gone on all injectors. Addressed all issues and runs great now.