97 Camry engine dies if RPM above 4000

[frankcamry]

Hi,

My 97 4cyl Camry engine will die if I pushed the accelerator and let the RPM go beyond 4000 but will start again soon if I depress the gas pedal. I need to be very careful in the freeway.
The same thing happens on idle, if pushed beyond 4000 it will sputter and dies and comes on again. Fuel filter is new.
Appreciate any inputs
Thanks

Frank

[frenum49]

This could be caused by a few diff things. However, my first guess would be a failing fuel pump.

[frankcamry]

Thanks for the input.
Is there any way that we can check the performance of the fuel pump?

[frenum49]

Originally Posted by frankcamry

Thanks for the input.
Is there any way that we can check the performance of the fuel pump?

I am assuming you do not have the equipment to make the test. In this case I would goto a garage and ask them to check your fuel pressure. They will put a gauge on the fuel line to check for correct reading. Also make sure you mention that it dies around 4K RPM. If this turns out okay we can explore other avenues. Next I would start checking things like the TPS (throttle position sensor) though this is not likely to straight up kill the engine. To check the TPS you need to have a good scanner connected to the diagnostic system. Autzone does this for free I believe. Then you would make sure that the TPS % is at 0 with no throttle and at least close to 100% under WOT (wide open throttle). Also you would want to slowly push the accelerator down while monitoring the TPS % making sure that the number increases smoothly which will rule out any dead spots in its operation. Do this with the key on engine off.