Questions and Answers
LeBaron Fuel Problem
Q. Hi Vincent, I recently acquired a 1987 LeBaron GTS, 2.2 liter turbo, A/C, P/S, P/B. I had to put a used fuel tank/pump assembly on it from an 1986 Lebaron that the guy had to get the 1987 running. I drove it 150 miles then the idle became super rough.
I have put on all new fuel filter, PCV valve, rotor, distributor cap, plugs, wires. Did not have any effect. There is a strong gas smell coming from the back side of the engine below and left of the throttle body (exhaust manifold area?) I can see exhaust fumes in this area as well.
I removed the fuel pressure regulator vacuum hose while idling and the idle increased slightly. Checked vacuum hoses for leaks, can't find any on ones I can get to. But it sounds like its missing bad. What should I do next?
Thanks in advance for any advice you may give.
MikeA. The 1986 and 1987 2.2 turbos operated at different fuel pressures. The fuel pressure on the 1987 is about 6 psi higher than the 1986 which may be a partial reason why the engine runs rougher.
Another possibility is the fuel pump filter may be clogged. This was a problem with those cars in those years. This can be confirmed by placing a fuel pressure gauge on the test port and observing the fuel pressure. it should remain steady and constant. If it fluctuates or drops then the fuel pump filter is clogged and should be replaced with a new fuel pump filter package, P/N 4797189 from Chrysler.
The fuel smell is probably coming from the fuel pressure regulator. There was a Recall 88V105000: Pressure Regulator/Fuel Rail Hose Leak, on all Chrysler vehicles equipped with the 2.2 liter turbo charged engine. If you take it to a Chrysler dealer, they will perform the recall free of charge. If it is leaking, it will cause the rough idle you describe and poses a very real danger of a fire.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
