88 corolla rough idle - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

sdjeff · 05-07-2007, 07:26 PM

Hi,

I have an 88 corolla wagon with ( I think ) an idle problem.

The engine and trans was rebuilt about 7k miles ago under the previous owners. it's a one owner, too!. I'm the second owner, the previous were an old couple who took very good care of the car. Aside from a little rust and this idle, the car is pristine. I had a dealership look it over and they were surprised at the condition. Needless to say, it was quite a find.

Anyway, the engine is smooth until you put it in gear. The vibration is very prominrnt. The whole car shakes. The mounts are fine. Even putting on the tiniest amounts of gas smooths it right out. It has good pickup and shifts smooth. simply, beside this idle there are no problems.

it's carbuerated and i don't understand it. I used to be a mechanic before being on disability and I understand fuel injection. I don't understand carbs. So, do I just need to just advance the idle speed? if so, how? if not, what could it be?

Thanks in advance

sdjeff · 05-08-2007, 02:58 PM

Does anyone know this?

Flashmn · 05-08-2007, 03:10 PM

can range from a clogged idle jet to just an adjustment issue.

90 GP · 05-09-2007, 04:38 AM

Check all of the vacuum hoses for leaks ( there are alot of them). Could also simply need an idle speed adjustment. The adjustment for that is a large screw with ridges around it on the drivers side of engine. Check out a manual from your local library . It would have a pic and the procedure to adjust it. Does it have a/c and idle any better with that running? If so it is the idle speed adjustment as it raised slightly when that is running.

Flashmn · 05-09-2007, 05:17 AM

If it has AC, it has idle up compensation, also, you adjust the idle speed with the ac off. The readings should be on the sticker under the hood.

sdjeff · 05-09-2007, 02:57 PM

Thanks all. i think I'll first buy a repair guide and check the vac hoses. If it all checks out, I'll adjust the idle screw. The AC doesn't seem to make a difference. Thats actouallly nice, though. i had a 2001 impreza and when the AC was on, it turned a very sporty and quick car into a slug. But I digress.

I really appreciate your help, folks.