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Poor Engine Performance

  1. Check engine coolant level and concentration. Check all vacuum hose connections and routings. Check initial timing against emissions label specifications. Reconnect vacuum advance hose. Check routing of detonation sensor wire. It must not be routed next to distributor or spark plug wires.
  2. With engine running, check voltage between pins "F" and "K" of 10 pin connector at ESC controller. If voltage reads at or above 11.6 volts, proceed to step  3). If voltage is below 11.6 volts, check alternator charging circuit.
  3. Turn air conditioner off, install tachometer and start engine, running it at 1800 RPM. Using a steel rod, tap front area of manifold rapidly using medium-to-heavy taps. Engine speed should drop 200 or more RPM and then return to original speed within 20 seconds after tapping stops.
  4. If not, replace ESC controller. If RPM drops, disconnect 4-wire connector at distributor. Install jumper wire on distributor side of connector from terminal "A" to "C". If engine will not run, check distributor according to instructions for HEI in this section. If distributor is OK, reconnect ESC controller and check other systems than ignition. If distributor is defective, repair as necessary and reconnect ESC controller.
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