87 Camry stuttering problem above 25mph

[seattlecamryowner09]

Just wondering if anyone has any ideas. Have an 87 4cylinder automatic camry wagon with 118,000 miles, which was running well until recently. Now, it idles well and drives fine at slower speeds, but when pushing the gas pedal to accelerate to speeds above 25-30 mph, the car stutters. It doesn't stall, just stutters and fails to accelerate. Downhill it is not a problem, but on level roads or uphill, when more power is needed, it can't go above 25-30 mph. Changed the spark plugs out, but to no avail. Thought I'd see what others have to say before doing anything more.

Any ideas as to what this could be?

Thanks,

[Doctor J]

in park, can you rev the engine above 3000 rpm?

[white90dx]

It most likely needs a new ignition coil. Check/replace the wires, cap and rotor while you are there.

-Charlie

[seattlecamryowner09]

I can rev it up in park, and it sounds fine. It seems like it is only when there is a load on the engine, like when I attempt to accelerate quickly, go up hills or go at speeds above 25-30mph, that the car continually stutters. Any more thoughts?

Thanks for your help.

[mattjm]

Check/replace fuel filter. If no problem there, check fuel pressure.

[Doctor J]

Select the 2nd gear and accelerate to 30 mph if engine "pulls"the better but at higher RPM, check the ignition coil/ compression/fuel mixture (too lean) due to the vacuum leaks