Old thread, I know. But, is is possible the timing mark on the balancer slipped? After replacing all those parts, seems like timing could be the culprit. Did you ever verify the mark at tdc? Also, dod you replace the coolant temp sensor, or sender? Or both?

 

Yes I replaced the sensors. Timing was set twice by a tech at the dealership. Not sure what you mean by timing mark slip at top dead center? Meaning the timing set to the mark could be off?

 

There are two coolant sensors. One is a sending unit that runs the temp guage. The other is a sensor that sends info to the computer about coolant temp. And i have heard of the timing mark on an older balancer slipping out of position. So to time it solely by the mark without verifying top dead center of cylinder one, could lead to a long frustrating process, never solving the actual prob. I would ask your mechanic if he verified tdc before setting the timing.

 

Now that is the best new advise yet. By the way I bought a coolant temp sensor and had them install it, but was not aware of two of them.

 

So, after 54 post's and 16 months, what happened? So tired of reading post's due to an issue I may have and people just stop posting. Kinda leaves ya hanging.
Hope you got it fixed

 

This thread is awesome automotive drama! Hoping for the best buddy!!

 

I was gifted this car for Xmas, hell of a gift right!? After reading this thread over and over. Adjustments too numerous to count. And many hours of reading forums and tech articles. I changed the 80 dollar Electronic Spark Control Module (flat square box behind fuel pump relay) BAM! Car runs like a raped ape! Sorry to leave everyone hanging! (it was really the only thing left that had not been replaced) Beautiful car, good job blackfrontier! (except the steering wheel ha ha )

 

Regarding the wire splice between fan and pump:
The fan mainly needs a lot of power when starting up, so I guess you would have issues while priming the fuel pump and starting the car, rather than up in the hills after the car has been running for a while.

Remember that you've got different air pressure and oxygen levels the higher your altitude gets. The ECM goes higher into certain table values according to the input from all the sensors.
I wouldn't suspect the ECM though, if this is your only driveability issue.

What about atmosphere-related sensors like MAF or MAP (guess you have a MAP sensor, not MAF)?
Have you tried getting some values out of it to see if they make any sense or replaced the sensor?
Best thing would be to get the car hooked up to a computer and see what happens in the ECM.
You mentioned having replaced the TPS. Did you adjust it (if possible) to the correct voltage? Does the new TPS voltage increase in a linear fashion without sudden drops or rises on the gauge?
Engine timing has been correctly adjusted after replacing the distributor, I assume.

 

I was unable to figure out this problem and sold the car. I got the 89 GTA in the picture and ditched the 87 in the background. Real shame after all that. I am currently rebuilding the engine in the 89 so not sure it was a better move, but at least I don't have to paint it and it has T-Top and leather interior.