Chrysler Repair: 86 Laser error code 54, driveability problem, chrysler laser

Question
I have a 1986 chrysler laser 2.2 turbo 5 speed I have been experiencing drivability problems including stalling poor milage and a check engine lite I checked codes and received a 54 and then 55. Do you have an idea where to begin my search for trouble and do you know of any possible causes or typical problems. The Laser has been in storage for most of its life.  

Answer
Hello Randy,
The code readout is helpful. The 55 code is always the last one because it means "end of readout". So you have one code,
the 54, which for the turbo means that there is a problem with the signal from the distributor which synchronizes the fuel injector pulses with the engine rotation. This would give you a driveability problem. The distributor has two electrical plugs, one for the spark timing the other for the synchronization. Check the plugs and see that the contacts are clean and tight when reconnected. If that doesn't help, you could check the wiring with an ohmmeter but at least look over the two wires and makes sure that neither shows any damage. If you want to check that the wires are properly connected to the engine logic unit I can tell you how to do that. But more likely the synchronizer pickup unit inside the distributor is the cause of the problem. It is quite easy to replace, just remove the rotor and the cover plate and substitute a new unit for the old one. The cost around $100. I believe that both pickup are sold as a unit. If you do this exchange with the distributor mounted on the engine you won't have to retime the ignition though it should read 12 BTDC with the engine warm and the temp sensor on the thremostat housing disconnected for the measurement.
Feel free to write back with any questions.
Roland