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I just picked up a 1988 Ford Mustang Convertible with a 2.3L for my duaghter to learn to drive on. She has her level 1 license and will have level two when she turns 16 next March.
Unfortunately, I do not have much history on the car and I am attempting to work out some of the "bugs" to get it ready for her. I am uncertain as to the mileage, as it has turned over and the odemeter reads 98000+. However, the engine looks to clean for being that old. What I know is that the plugs, wires, and cap look brand new, and I assume the rotor is also. The oil and oil filter look brand new. The PO had the oil pan gasket and various seals replaced because there was leakage. He also stated that the timing belt was replaced.
I am new to the 2.3L, as most of my experience is with the 289 in the 66 mustang and the 4.6 in the 97 Crown Vic.
The car runs ok, however I have a few areas I am trying to diagnose and I am looking for some assistance/suggestions.
1) Upon startup the engine shakes somewhat violently and the car vibrates quite a bit. However, once started this smooths out. Is this normal? Any ideas?
2) After starting the tach shows the car idling at around 1100 while in park and there is minor vibration in the steering wheel. Does this idle seem high? Would a high idle or timing issue cause the vibration?
3) Upon rapid acceleration (i.e. WOT) there is a slight hesitation. This occurs when in Park, neutral, or while driving the car. If I accelerate gradually their is no hesitation. Any tips on where I can start diagnosing this. IAC, TPS.
Thanks in advance.
Nick
Unfortunately, I do not have much history on the car and I am attempting to work out some of the "bugs" to get it ready for her. I am uncertain as to the mileage, as it has turned over and the odemeter reads 98000+. However, the engine looks to clean for being that old. What I know is that the plugs, wires, and cap look brand new, and I assume the rotor is also. The oil and oil filter look brand new. The PO had the oil pan gasket and various seals replaced because there was leakage. He also stated that the timing belt was replaced.
I am new to the 2.3L, as most of my experience is with the 289 in the 66 mustang and the 4.6 in the 97 Crown Vic.
The car runs ok, however I have a few areas I am trying to diagnose and I am looking for some assistance/suggestions.
1) Upon startup the engine shakes somewhat violently and the car vibrates quite a bit. However, once started this smooths out. Is this normal? Any ideas?
2) After starting the tach shows the car idling at around 1100 while in park and there is minor vibration in the steering wheel. Does this idle seem high? Would a high idle or timing issue cause the vibration?
3) Upon rapid acceleration (i.e. WOT) there is a slight hesitation. This occurs when in Park, neutral, or while driving the car. If I accelerate gradually their is no hesitation. Any tips on where I can start diagnosing this. IAC, TPS.
Thanks in advance.
Nick