Surges/Chuggles

Definition: Engine power variation under steady throttle or cruise. Feels like the car speeds up and slows down with no change in the accelerator pedal.

^ Be sure driver understands Transmission Converter Clutch and A/C compressor operation in Owner's Manual.

^ Check for loose or leaking air duct between Mass Air Flow sensor and throttle body.

^ Perform careful visual inspection.

^ Check generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9 or more than 16 volts.

^ If a tool is available which plugs in to the Assembly Line Communication Link(ALCL) connector, make sure reading of VSS matches vehicle speedometer.

^ Check for intermittent EGR at idle. See CHART C-7, or C-7A.

^ Check EGR filter for being plugged.

^ Check ignition timing. See Emission Control Information label.

^ Check in-line fuel filter. Replace if dirty or plugged.

^ Check fuel pressure. See CHART A.7.

^ Inspect Oxygen sensor for silicon contamination from fuel, or use of improper RTV sealant. The sensor may have a white, powdery coating and result in a high but false signal voltage (rich exhaust indication). The ECM will then reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem.

^ Remove spark plugs. Check for cracks, wear, improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy deposits. Also check condition of distributor cap, rotor, and spark plug wires.