QuestionI have a 91 mitsubishi montaro suv. It will idle, but when you press the gas petal it dies out. I have installed a new fuel pump and am getting plenty of gas. My question is: could it be that I am not getting gas thru the throttle essembly, or could it be the spark advance in the distributer causing the problem?
AnswerHarry,
There could be a few possiblities that could be causing your problem. If you're getting plenty of fuel, you may be lacking in air. Check your air filter and intake hoses. If the air filter looks real dirty, replace it. Also replace your PCV valve as well. Check for any cracks or leaks in your intake hoses.
You should also check (or have someone check) your throttle position sensor, idle air cotrol (IAC) valve, and your exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve. All of those items help regulate your RPMs at idle speed, and when you step on the throttle. It may be a good idea to remove your throttle body and give it a good cleaning. It is possible you're just not getting enough fuel like you mentioned. In that case, it would be a good idea to replace your fuel filter. A clogged fuel filter can greatly reduce the amount of gas that enters your engine. Clogged fuel injectors can cause a similar problem. Clean those, or have them cleaned, if you still feel insufficient fuel is getting to your engine. I don't think the problem is in your ignition because your engine would most likely idle rough if your timing was off.
If you can get a service manual for your car (both Haynes and Chiltons makes one for your model and year), it gives full instruction on how to service all the items I've mentioned. That can save you plenty in labor costs from a local mechanic.
If none of those items fixes your problem, you should check your car's computer. Read this article for further information:
http://90gsx.com/eclipse/cap/caps.htm
If your ECU is malfunctioning, it can cause all sorts of odd problems that do not seem to have a cause. It's probably best to have a professional check the ECU.
Good luck!
