How to fix a power drain type problem on my '96 S14?

[Gerry H]

Does it start easy enough and/or does it?:
a) Turn over on key OK
b) Struggle to fire i.e. cough and splutter, .
c) coloured smoke from exhaust when it first fires
d) Once started does it run like it's down a cylinder.
e) If you hold the throttle pedal down a little, can it maintain a steady RPM?
f) Once warm, will it idle OK + a, b, c, d, & e

If you overlook the simple things it costs 8)

I was meaning all of these things at stanstill and idle not driving

[V8_EATR]

Does it start easy enough and/or does it?:
a) Turn over on key OK
b) Struggle to fire i.e. cough and splutter, .
c) coloured smoke from exhaust when it first fires
d) Once started does it run like it's down a cylinder.
e) If you hold the throttle pedal down a little, can it maintain a steady RPM?
f) Once warm, will it idle OK + a, b, c, d, & e

:oops: Oh... a., yes / b., yes / c., no / d., no / e., yes / f., still splutters

[Gerry H]

Still inclined to check for splits or loose tubes and hoses first and then plugs & leads.

[V8_EATR]

Will do that, if all else fails I'll go to Gary! :-D

[Matt_S]

Is it running the std Wing mount intercooler? If so these are prone to crack and give similar symptoms

[V8_EATR]

I have a HKS FMIC currently.

[SirCharles]

If you do think its the intake pipe run, youcould always get some pipe and try connect the afm up straight to the inlet manifold. If it idled steady then you would know where to start. Though I'm not sure how easy it would be to do on an s14.



could it not be something simple like a clogged idle control valve?