Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) low power

[AndrewGray]

okay guys . I looked in the FAQ's and didnt find the answer i was lookin for but doesnt mean its not in there. My '97 CTD just doeant have much torque or power unless i run the star wheel all the way forward. I put a K&N on and it helped and straight exhaust it helped a little . My mileage is staying the same. Its all stock. No mods to speak of yet. If i crank the star all the way it runs a lot better and pulls a 6% grade with no load no problem. But the star wheel left in the middle i have to down shift to 4th and wont accelerate. Just is gutless that way. I have changed fuel filter but no change. Its been like that since i bought it a year ago. Im a new cummins owner and just learning how to play with it. Any ideas? thanks for the help.

 

[Joe G.]

If the star wheel has any affect after you get up to speed the AFC is suspect. Check the hose that provides boost. If it is a CA truck with an EGR valve the AFC may be plugged with soot.

 

[y-knot]

Joe,

It you continue to experience low power after checking all the obvious, and the AFC like the poster before mentioned, try removing the converter. When I pulled my after only three years of service, it was pretty clogged up with soot. Yours has been on their much longer, and it may be chocking your performance. You could get yourself a "Test pipe" or just go on and get a 4" exhaust. I would vote for the new exhaust system, it really Free's up the breathing, and makes a huge difference when towing.

 

[CATCRACKER]

check that you fuel shut of solenoid is working correctly. make sure that it is sucked up tight when you turn your key on. when this is not working right then it will suck up part of the way giving you only partial fuel. it on the driverside under the fuel pump turn on the key and then feel to make sure when it sucks up that you cant move it anymore. (i can not remember now if the fuel shut off should be up or down with the key on)

 

[AndrewGray]

y-knot you mention the converter . What are you talking about ? i have to familiarize myself with the terms used here. Its not a CA truck . I live in South Dakota and the truck was bought new here. I will check out the fuel shut-off solenoid too. After i read that catcracker i think it may be. I did have probs with it this spring but started workin again. THanks for the info guys. Any other ideas will be of great help