Questions and Answers

Chevy Caprice No Power, Backfires Q. Hi! I have a 1986 Chevy Caprice with the 4.3 liter V-6. It is my winter car. When I press the gas it makes a back fire sound but it is coming from the bottom of the motor. It runs good. Somtimes the motor shakes a lot at stop lights but idles smooth. I took the air cleaner cover off and the fuel injectors make a funny clicking sound sometime or when you hit the gas.

I had some type of heat riser thing on the driver side just below the manifold It was like a flap it opened and closed to let in air. Well it was not working right so the muffler shop welded it open and replaced the cross member pipe.

It runs a lot better and quieter but I still got all those other problems. And when you floor it, the car goes no were. It makes a sound like I'm losing air somewhere but the muffler system is all new. Help please.

Thanks,
Sergio

A. Has the catalytic convertor been checked or replaced? They can clog and car will run like a potato is stuffed in the tailpipe. Also make sure the fuel filter is not clogged. These cars used to wear out camshafts too! If backfire is constant under a load, check the cam for worn lobes.