Engine hesitation problem

[Shorebreak]

Hi all,

I have an 87 celica st, with the 3f-se engine. Runs great and has great acceleration. No codes come up when in maintence mode, timing is dead on @ 10 degrees, and it idles at 650 rpm. I just did a complete tune up on the car, the engine was replaced with about 40k on it 15k miles ago.

Only problem i have is some engine hesitation at 1800 rpm when applying low throttle. Funny thing is that when i punch the throttle, the car will accelerate smoothly. The problem only occurs when a small amount of throttle is applied. This problem makes low speed driving and cruising a big hassle!

The only clue i can find is when I adjust the thottle position sensor forward enough to throw a code 51, the hesitation is gone but the idle speed goes up to 1100 rpm. What do you all think could be the problem???

[mark hagenauer]

Vaccuum leak?

[Shorebreak]

Well, first off I think its funny that I got replies on this post months- maybe even a year after I first posted. Anyhow, if my memory serves me correctly, the problem was defective plug wires. At the time they were relatively new; however, somehow the wires disconnected from the metal casings at the end and were not giving full spark to the plugs, hence the hesitation. I went down to Napa and got some new wires and wala, no more hesitation. I took it to the track and ran scorching 17.8's in the 1/4 mile. Lol! Thing is I still won 3 bracket races with that time and beat a new Lancer Evo VII! Hope this helps.

[mark hagenauer]

Shaaa, didn't notice the date. I was researching a problem on a buddies car. Maybe your info will help. Thanks!