Ok, I have had a strange issue with our 97 Cavalier. It only has 92K on it, but it starts to surge then stall after warmed up. It will also run rough after warmed up. Here is what I have changed already.

Plugs
Wires
Coils
ICM
Idle Air Control Valve
TPS
TCC
Trans fully rebuilt with new converter
fuel filter

Would a failing timing chain tensioner cause erratic idle. I have no check engine light now, but the tech that worked on the car shows that it is random miss-fires, with the most on cyl 3. However it has not set a code. Compression was over 150 per cylinder. They thought that was fine for the mileage. Another mechanic thought maybe a sticking exhaust valve, but this is driving me nuts trying to figure it out.

The latest mechanic said it could be that the timing jumped a tooth causing it.

When it stalls, it surges slightly as I come to a stop, then stalls. Turns right back over with no hesitation. Runs fine down the hwy as far as I can tell.

Any advice is welcome! Thanks!

-- Damon



97 Cavalier 2.2L 3 Speed Auto.

I need to add that it also has new injectors and a new fuel pressure regulator.


97 Cavalier 2.2L 3 Speed Auto.

The last time I had timing chain issues, it was on my 88 LL8 (2.0 L TBI) and not the LN2, but what you're describing doesn't sound like what my engine did when the tensioner was failing and the gear skipped a tooth.


-----
Mike