1985 Buick problems... please help

[Ranger1989]

Okay, I know this is the wrong site to ask for help on a Buick, but I haven't been able to find good info on the net. My friend has a 1985 Century. It idles very rough, and shakes like it's trying to run for about 30 seconds after shutting it off. I had the same problem on my 89 Corolla, but all I needed to do was adjust the timing. Is there any way to fix the problem on the Buick without spending a huge amount on parts? If parts are too expensive, he will probably just sell it for 150$.

 

[97RangerXLT]

Seafoam.

Sounds like it is trying to "diesel" which could indicate a carbon build up. Get some Seafoam from Autozone and get the engine running until it is hot. then unhook a vacuum hose and suck about 1/2 the bottle into the intake with it until it stalls out. Let it sit for 5 minutes and start it up. the car will probably smoke the neighborhood out for about 15 minutes, but that is letting you know the seafoam is working.

Does this have the 2.5L? How many miles?

AJ

 

[Ranger1989]

Sorry for the vague info, I really don't know much about it, other than year, make and model. I haven't seen it yet, and my friend is one of those people that really has no idea what's under the hood. I'll try your idea. The only thing we stand to lose with that is a five dollar can.

 

[97RangerXLT]

And while you are at it, check all th vacuum lines. that can give you all sorts of idle problems if one of them is cracked or leaking.

AJ

 

[Ranger1989]

Thanks for the help. I suppose while we are under the hood we might as well change plugs and plug wires, maybe even the fuel filter. I highly doubt the car has been very well maintained, so it probably wouldn't hurt...