Nissan Repair: 1989 Nissan Sentra, nissan sentra, couple issues

Question
Black build up on end of spark plugs.  Blowing black smoke.  Reverse only works when first started in the morning, if it idles for any time it will not work, will not work for the rest of the day no matter how long it sits.  Will not shift into high or drops out of high then when you work the gas will go into 2nd.  Engine started to idle rough today the other problems have been a long going problem.  Thanks Shawn

Answer
Hi Shawn -

Looks like you have a couple issues here.

first of all, the black smoke and carbon deposits on the plugs is an indication of the car running rich. That is why it is running rough. Check for vaccuum leaks, carburetor float, or injecting too much gas in the throat. Also check for carbon tracking in the distributor cap, rotor. Could also be the ignition wires. Check each terminal.

Your transmission needs an overhaul. There is a good additive called AT205, sold by Carquest here in Hawaii. That has help many "no shift" conditions for me. If not, then an overhaul is in your future.

hope this helps
aloha
calvin