I've got a '94 Teg with 170+ g on it. Today it started running like it's misfiring. Poor shaky acceleration, jumpy idle. It also seems to be running colder than normal. Running down LA 101 at 85 the needle barely passed the first hash mark. Getting spark to all cylinders. Reset ECU. Exhaust smells different, maybe too rich. Runs steady during warm up idle. Any ideas? Appreciate the help!

 

maybe timing

 

Sounds like your thermostat is stuck open.

-Andrew

 

thermostat?
if the thermostat was messed up, you would have problems with your cooling system, ie - too much coolent get through and your getting cooler temperature readings then average, and etc.

have you checked your coil pack in the distributer, an injector can be screwed, many things could be messed up.

i had the same problem a while back, and, it turned out to be the oxygen sensor, which got screwed by major road flooding a days before the symptoms were occuring.

 

Are you throwing a code? I just threw a 73 last night (misfire on #3 cyl) so I changed the plugs and it's all good.

 

Yes thermostat:

Running in cold start mode all the time might cause the other problems, I'd fix the thermostat first and go from there.

-Andrew

 

i had something exactly like that like that happen b4 when i used to drive a protege turns out the thermostat got stuck closed and the radiator hose popped

 

Thanks for the help guys...took it to the mechanic across the street last night. He said the fuel filter is dirty as hell. Just changed it a year ago so that is a little surprising it's that dirty...though I have been running engine cleaner with every oil change - 2500 miles. Haven't picked up the car yet, but from his tone of voice it doesn't sound like it's running quite up to par. He said I "shouldn't have any problem getting up to highway speeds." I expect a hell of a lot more than that. And that still doesn't explain it running so cold.
But I have to say that this is the best car I've ever owned. 170,000 miles on her and she can still haul ass. Not like she used to of course, but can't complain. I'll update when I get her back tomorrow.

 

Okay...$80 diagnostics, 30 for a new fuel filter (!!!) and another $75 for labor and everything is fine, or so they told me. Half way to work and the car got warmed up and it started again, no difference. Still running kinda cold, still hesitating. Idle nearly stalls then revs up over and over again. Same BS. Gonna ream them a new one tomorrow. Gonna put a stop payment on the check too if they don't play ball.
Now...if it is the thermostat wouldn't the fan be turning all the time? It isn't. Distributor, plugs, bent valves? HELP!!!???
Oh and anyone know of a good, reliable and reasonably priced mechanic in LA preferably in or near the Valley? I'm sick of these clowns I'm working with now.

 

I would honestly change out your thermostat. It's only around 15 bucks and the least you would do would be out 15 bucks. How long has it been since you've changed it?