Expert: Sean Halliday - 4/18/2007

Question
i just recently bought a 97 cavalier 2.2L i got it for 600 because the guy said that it would die on him and wouldnt start back up. well i got it started it ran fine for the first day or so... and it has been sitting for a year. well yesterday it began like chugging between 40 mph and 50 mph like its not getting gas today it has been doing it at all speeds and when i come to a complete stop it will die but start right back up if i put it in nuetral at a light and keep the rpms and 1200 or so it wont die and it is an automatic i have done oil change and spark plugs on it and tried to disconnect that tranmission clutch converter i think i read that in a similiar problem. please tell me the possible problems and and how to repair.. i work in a shop and am going to automotive school so i have the equipment thank u and have a great day. oh and the oil light comes on at stops also

Answer
First thing you need to do is check your oil.The light may be coming on because of low oil pressure.The cutting out problem could be fuel pressure so you will need to check the fuel pressure at the rail.Look also at the pressure regulator.MAF sensor,EGR,will need to be checked as also the vacuum lines and PCV valve.Good idea to change the fuel filter and air filter.The clutch converter?.I have never heard of this.There is nothing to "disconnect"to solve this problem.You will need to use what fuel there is and renew the gas as the car has been sitting and the gas can go bad over long periods if the previous owner hasnt used fuel stabiliser.