Advice on tune up procedures

[Paulofolympia]

We bought an '86 that has been sitting for maybe 8 months out of doors. It runs pretty well but when it boosts up, it doesn't take right off. In fact it kinda falls flat and stumbles. This weekend I plan to fill it with fresh high octane (92) as it had 3/4 of a tank of ???? which I have been running through. I will replace the plugs and wires, clean the air filter and look for vermin nests, change the oil. Any tips on do's or don't would be appreciated. Should the switch be placed to high or low octane (it is currently on low). Some oil from around the valve cover that I assume needs a new gasket. any thoughts? Thanks, Paul

[NY eric]

search function is your friend. yes use motorcraft parts there is a difference (plugs wires rotor and cap). The ford valve cover gasket is arguably the best one and leaks the least(yes they all will leak eventually). if you havent discovered rock auto google it you will find most of what you need at good prices.

good luck

[SnakePlisskin]

I'd dump a bottle of dry gas and a bottle of fuel system cleaner in the tank also. Change cap and rotor as well and check timing. I'd put switch on premium and see how she does. I'd drain the tank of the old gas if possible first and then fill it up.

[SVO58]

My 2 cents, check for a vacuum leak.

[Meotchh]

My experience with those problems have usually been with spark plugs, wires, cap and/or rotor.

When I bought mine, the same symptoms occurred due to wires that had chaffed on the intercooler. Replaced them with a new set of Motocraft wires & all was good.

[k98dave]

Ditto plus fuel filter after you get rid of all the old gas. Also are both fuel pumps running? Switch on to whatever type gas your using, even with switch on reg it should not stumble.

Get the Fel Pro one piece valve cover gasket. Its a blue viton with metal insert.

[rodster]

Not a technical answer but if it's been sitting outside for 8 months, it's probably looking for a nice long drive and then be washed and parked inside when it gets home. Part of dealing with these cars is knowing what they think! :D

[Paulofolympia]

There is a charge-cooler in the way of my getting at the plugs. Does this need to be removed to get at them? I see 2 small bolts on the front and 2 larger ones on the back; as well as 2 hose clamps from the turbo and 2 more to the throttle body? What surprises might I find if I attempt this. What parts come off with the charge-cooler? Any other tips? Thanks.6072

[stockman1]

yes you have to remove the intercooler. since you are not sure about gas leave the switch in low. I replaced the fuel filter, injectors plugs and wires. Get the code reader tool from your auto parts store it costs about $20 and will verify all your sensors. I had a bad o2 sensor. check all hose clamps and vacuum lines for leaks..........

[Paulofolympia]

Before I proceed do the black hoses come off with the intercooler or stay with the turbo/throttle body? As you may see the TB hose doesn't look very good and I am nervous about screwing it up. Also the plug wires have hard plastic heat shielding around them. Do these pry off to be re-used or somehow slide off? Trying to do no harm. Thanks60736074

[Meotchh]

Paul,

I find it's easier to leave the top hose on the IC & the lower hose on the turbo.

Looks like someone covered the wires in a split loom in an attempt to protect them. I wouldn't worry too much about damaging the loom, it's cheap & easy to replace.

You might also consider purchasing one or both of the manuals avilable to help you better understand the engine & associated EEC sensors.

http://www.svocop.com/forum/showthread.php?1585-2-3-Turbo-manual-available-for-Bellevue-and-Sturgis&highlight=Slocum

Both Slocum's manual & Fleming's manual are available & you can save on shipping if you want to make a short trip north to Puyallup.