engine knocking, please help!

[vforny]

Hello there,

I have a mazda miata 93 and have been hearing some engine knocking for the past 2 days.

I am also having problems getting into first gear. The car feels like it's going to stall for the first few seconds and it takes some time to actually start moving.

I also experience lack of acceleration when the car is at 3000-40000 RPMs on first gear.

When I shift to second gear then it really seems like it's not going to go any faster.

From what you can see I am not very "car savvy" and would appreciate any help on this.

I am a young woman who just moved to California and heard enough horror stories about mechanics in the area. If anyone could give me so pointers on what to look for under the hood, that would be great.

I am freaking out as this car is almost 10 years old and I will not be able to spend much on repairs at this time.

Thank you all in advance for your help.

[PaulMiata]

is it knocking or tapping?
check your oil, low oil level will give you tapping and also old oil will too. how many miles are on the last oil change? Miatas tend to have a lot of valve noise on old oil, at least both of mine do, 94 & 95. Try some Mobil 1 15w50 next oil change.

stalling:
how old are your spark plugs?
how about the spark plug wires?

has the engine bay been power-washed recently? if yes, water can leak down into where the spark plugs sit, yes past those rubber boots. pull the boots off and dry out those cavities. hairdryer should work or they will just dry themselves within a few days.

your idle speed may be set too low, read here to adjust that http://www.miata.net/garage/ignition.html#idle

the miata is also equipped with a device that measures the air flow intake. if there are any leaks between it and the throttlebody the onboard computer will slow down or stall the engine.

Check your air filter too, it could be totally clogged.

Could be your timing being retarded too far

If you can't figure it out, post on http://www.miataforum.com/ part of www.miata.net
Many .netters would be willing to help you out just cuz you share the same passion as us, a Miata. Some of us actually enjoy working on Miatas and welcome the challenge. I know I would do it, but I am in NJ.
Good Luck