Sporadic Power Loss

[hckymstr21]

I've got a 94 Cobra with o/r H-pipe and K&N...no other mods. Once the engine is warm the engine will gain and lose power sporadically. The rpms will jump back and forth when at cruising speeds. It cuts out almost like it's not getting fuel. When it's parked the engine will just about die and then rev back up to keep it from dying.

Keep in mind I'm deployed and my brother is having this issue, so it's hard for me to be real specific. I'm weorking through the problem with him and wanted additional opinions from you guys.

He had the codes pulled and the only code that should up was for a messed up spark plug. He's replaced the sprark plug, oxygen sensors and TPS so far.

Any advice would be awesome.

 

[hckymstr21]

Oh yeah, MAF was replaced as well.

 

[Dino Dino Bambino]

Now that we're getting into the hot summer season, there already seems to be an outbreak of "PIP flu" with PIP sensors going out on several '94-'95 Mustangs (mine included). They're sensitive to the heat and as they age, they can cause random stalling problems or intermittent power loss.
The PIP sensor is inside the distributor but replacing it should be left to a professional who has the required tools. The more expensive (for parts) but less labor-intensive alternative is just to replace the whole distributor.

 

[Chythar]

Eh, it's not that difficult to replace the PIP yourself, you just need to make sure you have the right tools or you'll mangle the distributor. You can even do it with hand tools, I've done it myself. I do agree, buying all the tools is more than the cost of a remanufactured distributor, but this way you KNOW you have a new part.

hckymstr21, I wouldn't recommend replacing the PIP yourself, it's easier to just buy a remanufactured distributor. While the PIP may not be new, it's been tested and should be good enough for a test. Drop in the new distributor and see if the problems go away.

Also check the rotor and car on the distributor, even if they're new. If there is any corrosion, replace them. Yes, it's a simple thing but usually overlooked. We all tend to look for the hard problems and overlook the easy ones.

If your brother signs up here, we can help him directly rather than having to go through you.