Mirage 2003 - Runs, won't accelerate

chodgson

chodgson

New Member
This is driving me a bit crazy.

I picked up a 2003 Mirage which runs OK but never has had the performance as my other other 2003 Mirage. Runs really rough on start up, won't accelerate, doesn't like steep driveways, sounds like a tractor. So I have done the following to try and rectify.

1) Ignition timing including base ignition timing (grounding to earth) setting to around 5 degrees before TDC - it still accelerates poorly

2) Changed the airfilter

3) Changed the plugs (made sure gap was 1mm)

4) Changed the leads

5) Cleaned the distributor terminals and cleaned the rotor (metal bit) - no evidence of oil in the distributor.

6) Changed the fuel filter

7) Made sure leads were sparking

8) Swapped out the distributor - no better

Nothing seems to fix it - What am I missing?

When timing most recently the timing light doesn't strobe on cylinder one yet it does on my other answer (thinking a weak spark?)

Any ideas greatly appreciated.
 
You're on the right track - time to verify the ignition coil is up to scratch. Im sure i know how to do it, but i havent had a dizzy in like a decade check google for other sources for it. If the spark is good, and air and fuel feeds are good, then it might be valve clearances, or worst case, the engine is well worn
 
Have yo checked the timing marks on cam and crank to ensure the belt was fitted correctly?
 
OK, did a compression test they are 1) 180 psi, 2) 181, 3) 180, 4) 179. That seems to me telling it's old but compression with the suggested 170-190 psi range. So I am back to thinking electrics.
 
It would appear that cylinder 1 and 2 are not firing all the time. While idling, if I pull off the plug lead from cylinder 3 or 4 the engine attempts to die. If I pull the lead off cylinder 1 or 2 there is little difference to the way the engine is idling. So it keeps pointing to a weak spark but mostly on cylinders 1 and 2. Not making much sense.
 
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