| Subject: | Engine noise and stumble |
| Question: | 1990 Eclipse GS 2.0
DOC Non Turbo The engine has slowly developed a ticking noise that I can only relate as "sticking a playing card in bicycle spokes". I just can't locate it. Also, recently, the engine has begun to stumble badly when accelerating at low RPM. Say around 2000 to 2700. When it does this the whole vehicle lunges violently. Any ideas would be appreciated. This is a great car, has around 143,000 miles. Thanks. |
| Answer: | John, The sound you described is pretty common for the early model Eclipses. This ticking noise is probably due to your valve lifters. The lifters in the early Eclipses have very small oil passages. Over time, debris in your oil may start to block the already small passage way, and when there is not enough oil getting to the valve components, you start to hear the ticking. The valve lash adjusters are affected by this as well, so that can add additional ticking noises. My guess is that you may notice the ticking noise reducing intensity as your engine warms up. This isn't a major problem as it is very common for your model of car. If you really want to cure it, you'd need a valve job. It's possible your stumbling problem is related to this, but
I kind of doubt it. Low RPM stumbling is usually evident
of an intake problem. Here are a few common areas that can
cause this: These are just a few common areas. Other areas may include dying alternator, weak fuel pump, or even something like your engine oil is too thick. A full tune-up should probably take care of this problem.
Even if it doesn't, a tune-up is great to do for a car with
that many miles on it. So if you take your car to mechanic
for the tune-up, take this list and make sure he checks everything
on it. |