Shakes, idles at 500 RPM's and when trying accelerate it shuts off

GARYLAF94

MEMBER
1996 GEO TRACKER
1.6L
4 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
100,000 MILES

My engine shakes, will only idle at 500 RPM's. When you press the gas pedal it bogs down and either shuts off or goes back to 500 RPM's. It happened while going 40 I slowed down to make my turn lost all power and it’s been that way since. Don’t know it’s it’s a fuel issue a air issues a spark issue or what.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,170 POSTS

Hi,

It is likely related to a fuel pressure issue or an engine vacuum leak. That is where I would start. However, if the check engine light stays on when the engine is running, I would scan the computer for diagnostic trouble codes.

Here is a link that shows how to check for an engine vacuum leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

If you find no leaks, then I would check fuel pressure. Here is a link that shows in general how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the directions for testing fuel pressure specific to your vehicle. The attached pics correlate with the directions and the specifications are included.

You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts will lend one to you.

_____________________________

1996 Geo Truck Tracker 4x4 L4-1.6L VIN 6
Fuel System Pressure Test
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Fuel System Pressure Test
FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST
Fuel Rail Plug Bolt

Pic 1

Comp. Loc

Pic 2

FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST
A fuel system pressure test is a part of several diagnostic charts and symptoms checks. To perform this test, follow the procedure listed below.

TOOLS REQUIRED
J34730-1 Fuel Pressure Gage
J39021 Fuel Injector Tester
J39200 Digital Multimeter
J41011 Fuel Pressure Gage Adapter

PROCEDURE
1. Relieve fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure under Service and Repair.
2. Remove fuel plug bolt from fuel rail (refer to image).
3. Install a J41041 Fuel Pressure Gage Adapter to fuel rail (refer to image).
4. Install a J34730-1 Fuel Pressure Gage to J410411 Fuel Pressure Gage Adapter (refer to image).
5. Reconnect negative (-) battery cable. Tighten negative (-) battery cable-to-negative (-) battery terminal retainer to 15 Nm (11 lb. ft.).
6. Start engine and idle at normal operating temperature.
7. Check fuel pressure as follows:

Idling - 210-260 kPa (30-37 psi).
Engine not running, ignition switch in the "ON" position - 250-300 kPa (36-43 psi).
Within one minute with engine not running, ignition switch in the "ON" position - pressure should hold at about 180 kPa (26 psi).

If pressure is not within specification, refer to On-Board Diagnostic System Check under Computers and Control Systems.

8. Relieve fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel Pressure Relief Procedure.
9. Disconnect J34730-1 and J41041 from fuel rail. Use shop towel to catch any remaining fuel that may leak.
10. Install fuel rail plug bolt. Tighten fuel rail plug bolt to 45-55 Nm (33-39.5 lb. ft.).
11. Connect negative (-) battery cable. Tighten negative (-) battery cable-to-negative (-) battery terminal retainer to 15 Nm (11 lb. ft.).
12. Turn ignition switch to "ON," and then back to "LOCK" to pressurize the fuel system. Check for any fuel leaks.

________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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