Engine A Dying CJ5!

[jzak]

Hey Guys,

This has been going on for a few weeks now, so sorry for the long story. I've got a 1981 CJ5 AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l with a Howell TBI kit. Here's a break down of the problems, and what i've done so far:
1: Engine stalled out, and wouldn't start again.
2: Replaced ECM. Now it starts and runs, but dies in 3rd and 4th gears or when going uphill.
3:Replaced fuel pump, filter, ignition coil, and added 3 gallons of extra gas. Didn't make any difference.
4: I called the Howell TBI guys, and they recommended checking the map sensor, and the Throttle Position Sensor. Map sensor was good but the TPS unit wasn't functioning.
5:Installed a new TPS, which definitely helped. Before i couldn't back out of my driveway without stalling. Now i'm able to get down the street, but it's still dying when i try to accelerate beyond 20 mph.

Any ideas? Thanks!

 

[Belizean]

How many miles on the engine ? Any idea what shape the timing chain and sprockets are in ?

 

[jzak]

I'm on borrowed time with the timing chain. I don't know what the original miles are, but it's probably around 80-100K. Obviously if the chain was broke, it wouldn't be idling. Will a worn out timing chain cause these kind of symptoms? If it is the chain, I think i'll probably wait till i have enough money to do an engine rebuild. Thanks!

 

[CJ]

What amount of deflection do you have? Do you have poly gears or steal? Is it more than 1/2" deflection?

 

[jzak]

I have no idea. I haven't touched the timing chain since i bought my CJ5 .

 

[CJ]

You need to check it.

 

[Belizean]

Mine was all steel and at 140,000 miles mine started stalling and killing. My Jeep buddy told me to take a look. Both sprockets were worn down and chain worn. Put a new set on and it ran like a champ again. Who knows about yours though. That was mine

 

[CJ]

Mine was all steel and at 140,000 miles mine started stalling and killing. My Jeep buddy told me to take a look. Both sprockets were worn down and chain worn. Put a new set on and it ran like a champ again. Who knows about yours though. That was mine

Yep, check the chain...