Andy_M

OK, so I replaced plugs, cap, rotor, wires and the miss persists. Cylinder 3 appears to be dead. It is getting fuel and spark, but compression is zip, so I assume since this problem went from a minor intermittant rough idle that cleared up to a full time miss that doesn't, that a valve is probably stuck open. May be a piece of carbon. Rebuilt heads look like $940 plus shipping if I reuse my cam/lifters/rockers, $400 to $500 of that being a core charge, so ~$500 to fix.

Before I go that route, what other options might be available? I remember seeing something about a product that can clean the carbon out? Anyone know about that ? Other options? Not sure if I have a local shop that could do a refurb, or if it would even be worth it.

All input appreciated....especially if you have already been through this one....

crr1612

sea foam seems to work well to clean carbon. run it through your throttle body during idle. stick some in your gas tank. and throw some in your oil before a change.

Andy_M

Where do you find this stuff ? Is is actually called "Sea Foam" ?

crr1612

yep its called sea foam. it should be available online or at pepboys

NorCal124

Another good thing to use to take out carbon deposits is the use of an engine flush. Unfortunately it requires an oil and filter change immediately after its use. You can see in the oil you drain how black it is (given you haven't neglected your oil change interval).