Expert: Alicia R. Boutwell - 2/10/2004

Question
engine idles fast/slow/stop during operation and dosn't have any power.  will continued operation damage the engine. what seems to be the problem?
thank you. gnj/do-it-yourselfer

Answer
I am more of a visual mechanic and probably can't help to much this way. I know that based on experience this is probably a problem where the engine is not getting enough air or something is plugged. Like the cat may have a problem or be plugged and that can cause problems like what you are describing. Maybe a hole in the exhaust system also. Certain sensors can cause that problem also. Maybe the O2 sensors or the map sensor. I am also a do it yourselfer person and I have had plenty of cars w/ issues. I hope this helps if not I would go to some of these sites they have technical help

http://www.cyberwrench.com

http://www.familycar.com/fredsgarage.htm

http://www.morph44.com/auto.html

http://www.wrenchhead.com

What year is this truck?