QuestionMy car starts and idles. As I apply gas the engine stalls. If I allow it to warm up a bit, I can accelerate, but sometimes push peddle to the floor with the engine stalling. Once I get moving can only get speed up to about 30-50. I believe Cat converter could be partially plugged what do you think? If so where can I get a new cat cheap, found one for $188, includes shipping. I also want to do my own repair, but the back two bolts are very difficult to reach, it's a 6-inlet and 3-outlet part.
AnswerHello -
There are several things you can check before you condemn the cat.
First of all, check the distributor cap and wires. A lot of times you may get it to idle, but because the tower of the cap (or coil) is corroded, the car will not respond to the extra load of acceleration. Also open the cap and check the rotor.
Second, check the fuel pump pressure. It may supply enough fuel at idle, but when the engine calls for more gas, it may not be supplying enough volume of fuel, thus stalling the car. If you have a fuel pressure gauge, that will help.
If all fails, then an easy way to check the cat is to remove the exhaust at the manifold, and see if the car stalls still. It will be noisy, but at least you have your answer.
Hope this helps -
calvin
