Grand AM: Random Misfire Error Code & Catalytic Converter Gets Hot

[seilong]

That Car
Grand AM 2000 2.4L SE

The Problem
The current problem with the car is that it is not accelerating fast, for example i would push the petal to the metal and only go 25 mph and my RPM would be 3000-4000. Initial my brother and cousin though it was the Catalytic converter because it was getting hot but that has recently been change along with the fuel filter and spark plugs. but the catalytic converter is still gets red hot so i forbid myself from driving it till i fix what every causing the slow acceleration and the temperature of the Cata when i took the error code think P0300 random misfire to the local Autozone they printed me a long list of things that could be a issue my question is what is the likely culprit so i can fix those 1st before shelling out cash to rebuild a engine. may just have to get rid of it at that point. so i guess what am asking is a list maybe top 10 so i can fix them one by one as my money comes in.

Before the problem
Before the accelerating issue the car would randomly stop when i slowed down or stooped that when i replace the spark plugs.

Any information will be helpful even if you just point me to another forum that has a solution, Thank you in advance for the help.

[Tech II]

If you lay into it from a dead stop, and it doesn't accelerate or shift, and revs out around 3000, but if you LIGHTLY ACCELERATE FROM A DEAD STOP AND IT SHIFTS AND IT SLOWLY GETS UP TO SPEED, that is usually a plugged exhaust....

As for the P0300, can you feel the misfire? Does your CE light flash?

You replaced the cat? Use OEM or one of those mini replacements?

Misfires on this engine, are usually caused by the ignition tower, the coil(s), or the ignition module.....more often than not, it's the tower....

Also have you checked the vac line to the fuel pressure regulator for fuel?

[seilong]

so i should try to replace the ignition towers, do they go by any other name?

can't seem to find them here
http://www.usautoparts.net/shop/repparts.php

[Tech II]

Would help if you answered the questions....

Here's a pic:



8. Tower
4. coil
2. ignition module
9. plug boots( these should be inspected and make sure the spring is inside them)

[seilong]

Okay i have already replace the plug boots so am good there just need to find a tower. Thanks for the help, going to start ordering a 56 mechanic tool set from sears and start replacing parts. i just hope i don't have to go under the car.


As for the P0300, can you feel the misfire?
I don't know what a misfire feels like

Does your CE light flash?
It comes on if that what your asking.

You replaced the cat? Use OEM or one of those mini replacements?
Walker Catalytic Converter it had to be wielded in. EO# D-182-45 or SKU# WK81701

Also have you checked the vac line to the fuel pressure regulator for fuel?
Not sure, i had someone looked at car but never told me if a line was broken
whats that a 20 buck line