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Sentra runs rough at idle


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bill k
User

Dec 2, 2008, 5:08 AM

Post #1 of 6 (3177 views)
Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

1993 Sentra 1.6 runs rough at idle when warmed up
It has 130,000 miles and we change the oil every 3000 miles and just changed the plugs. Now when the car is warmmd up and we stop at a light or anywhere with the engine at idle with or without the AC on the car runs very rough and the exhaust sounds like it is popping. If we add just the smallest touch of throttle is goes away and runs smooth.
What should I check????Frown


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Dec 2, 2008, 6:32 AM

Post #2 of 6 (3169 views)
Re: Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

Are you up to date with routine maintenance like the timing belt?



******************************
Timing Belt Replacement Schedule
For your 1993 Nissan/Datsun Sentra 1.6L SFI DOHC : Note: It is recommended at every 60,000 miles or every 48 months to replace timing belt regardless of the condition

T



bill k
User

Dec 2, 2008, 11:53 AM

Post #3 of 6 (3158 views)
Re: Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

We have changed the belt that runs the accessories a few years ago, is that what you are talking about or is there a different belt for the timing.


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Dec 2, 2008, 1:58 PM

Post #4 of 6 (3153 views)
Re: Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

I simply looked up what this uses and that suggestion is from the parts site. The timing belt is "cogged" rubber and has a life expectancy and FREQUENTLY CAN'T BE SEEN AT A GLANCE. This car should be on it's third by now!

Popping out exhaust would be consistant with this jumping a tooth and valve timing is off. Rubber belts can just snap and with some engine's the valves will collide with pistons and render the engine a lawn ornament in one nano second. You really have to know these are up to date so do check.

This is not the belt that runs the alt and other accessories that you see,

T



(This post was edited by Tom Greenleaf on Dec 2, 2008, 1:58 PM)


bill k
User

Dec 2, 2008, 4:18 PM

Post #5 of 6 (3143 views)
Re: Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

We have a Haynes manual and it says that 1991 thru 1994 have a timing chain, not a belt, any other suggestions what to check that can cause a rough idle


Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran / Moderator
Loren Champlain Sr profile image

Dec 2, 2008, 5:16 PM

Post #6 of 6 (3141 views)
Re: Sentra runs rough at idle Sign In

Bill; There are many reasons an engine can run rough. Air/fuel, secondary ignition, ect. The first things I would check would be cap, rotor, and wires. (assuming it is a secondary ign. issue). Since it runs 'fine' when cold, it could be that it is running too lean or too slow at hot idle. When the engine is cold, it runs rich (by design). As it warms, the air/fuel mixture leans. So, the rich mixture when cold, could be masking a lean condition when warm.
Could be as simple as base idle setting. Could be that the injectors/throttle body need cleaning. (IMO, the injector cleaner in a can is "snake oil"). It's okay for in-between cleanings, but the thourough cleaning needs to be done professionally. Just like your teeth. Brushing is great for in-between cleanings, but a Dentist needs to do the 'real' cleaning. Many idle quality problems can be corrected by cleaning. So, sorry, no easy definite answer.Wink
Loren
SW Washington






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