Ford Repair: PCV Valve on an 88 mustang, ford mustang lx, pvc valve

Question
I own a 1988 Ford Mustang LX with a 4 cylinder 2.3L EFI engine. The car has 97,000 miles on it. I have been experiencing some power loss. It is somewhat difficult to start. It has to crank for a long time (didn't use to do that) and when it does turn over the engine sounds weak, sputters and stalls within 5 - 10 seconds. After a couple times of doing this it seems to be alright. Sometimes (not always) the car doesn't want to accelerate properly in 1st through 3rd gear. I learned that the pcv valve might be causing this (if not the fuel pump).

so my question is what do you think the problem could be?

and where is the pcv valve located on my car? the owners manual says it near the distributor cap but an auto repair book on mustangs i have claims it's underneath the air filter. I can't find it in either places. to be honest, i don't really know what the thing looks like expect for a smokey black and white picture in that mustang manual. Any ideas?

thanks,

Michael

Answer
I doubt the pvc valve is causing your problem. This valve is located low, by the distributor plugged into a black hose.

You more than likely have a fuel pump problem. If the pump leaks down or doesn't hold pressure it will cause hard starting.

Checking for codes is the best place to start, maybe a fuel pressure check. Could also be a timing belt problem, if it slips evenone tooth it will cause headaches.