Hello I have an IROC 87 TPI 5.0 LB9 that i just bought a couple weeks ago. I had to tow it because it stalls when in gear. Bought it this way taking on a project since the body and interior is in great shape (wanted a learning experience). Anyway i am 18 no mechanic but understand the basics.
The car starts right up however idles high.
When cold as high as 2500-2000 rpms and when at normal temp stays around 1500rpms.
It will stay completely on in idle and in gear however only if stationary with the break down.
It will take off when break is released however when I accelerate it hesitates and doesnt respond. It will move then bog down and stall.
It starts right up every time.
I have replaced pcv valve,
cleaned iac (did not replace since previous owner did and is brand new),
cleaned maf sensor and throttle body,
followed and checked all vacuum lines for leak, been trying to test tps but have no experience.

If you guys could guide me with some instruction on what other things i should check and how to that would be great. Also after reaching normal operating temps she blows some light white smoke and releases a strong fuel odor. I attempted to get codes using a cheap 20 buck ob1 gm scanner that uses a code manual (INNOVA 3123 GM OBD1). The only code i get is code 12 followed by continuous code 30 ( what is code 30). I am a rookie but want to learn as much as possible thanks alot in advance.

 

Have you tried checking the timing ?
I'd also check the base idle and you'll need a multimeter to check your tps voltage, it is pretty simple to check.

Also, the list I have a screenshot of from this site for engine error codes does not list a code 30.

 

How do I check timing?

i am going to check the tps sensor tomorrow I was using the wrong setting in my multimeter.

The code 30 I got from a flimsy code reader. Do you have any recommendations for a better yet affordable scanner for this car.

 

I would suggest using the jumper method at the ALDL to retrieve error codes. It will not provide data, but will display all the codes from a '165 ECM.

 

Thank you will definitely try it.

 

Do you have a timing light?

I don't know much about scanners, I know there's an old school snap on branded one. Are you familiar with the paper clip method? That's all you need to check for codes.

 

Whoops didn't see that before I responded

 

Thank you guys will try all the methods. The guy I bought it off of said it’s a possible timing “chain” issue. Sellers aren’t the best helpers when diagnosing their product.

 

Good luck, let us know how you go.
Sellers will always spin you a bunch of crap to get you to buy 🤷🏽‍♂️ hopefully doesn't take much for you to get it sorted, try the easy things first like mentioned above. I believe a bad timing chain can cause a bad idle/stalling.

 

Thank you I will keep you guys updated thanks for the help!

 

Alright guys did the paper clip method and man makes me think how good and easy American made products were to use. Anyway I got a code 22, 36, and 33. If anybody has had these codes would like to know what you did to fix them. Thanks

 

You might stick to one thread