Laser RS AWD Pack of Problems

[mojo jojo]

Hey guys,

I just picked up a family friend's old 92 Laser RS AWD and it has its share of problems. The main reason for this was the fact that it was sitting in their driveway for 7 months (April to Sept.). I changed the brakes (discks and pads) and all the fluids (no diff. stuff though). One problem i saw in the engine is the rusted brickette that used to be a turbo actuator which i know needs replacing (i am looking for one as we speak). The main problems with my car are as follows.

-the idle is messed up, after a bit of a drive and the car warms up the idle rises and drops from 1000-1500 rpm about 3 times and then levels off to 1000rpm.

-after the car is warmed up and i restart the car it sometimes stalls.

-finally my mileage is crap! i get about 300km per tank of gas (91 octane)

Any suggestions as to what could be causing these issues? I know it is pretty vague and could be several thing. I was also wondering if it is worth replacing the whole turbo or will the actuator be enough? I am planning on taking the car to get checked, but i thought of getting some extra info first.


jordan

 

[oldman]

1. Plugs and wires.

2. fuel filter.

3. Boost leak test.

That should give you enough to do for a while.

 

[mojo jojo]

out of curiosity, what is the average lifespan (in km or mi) for my stock turbo? just wether its better to replace the whole turbo or just the actuator.

 

[MrBoxx]

Even if the actuator is rusty, it should work fine, unless the actuator arm is corroded and rusting or there are holes in the canister. Mine's rusty and still works great.

 

[Spoolin4Ever]

Well I'm curious as to the maintenance history, and more to the point: Unless it's already been done, I think you should do all thye basic tuneup stuff on it.

And inspect your ECU! Do it do it! It's underneath the stereo. Do a search on ECU if you need more info it's a 10 minute, eas-to-do inspection. Because that can cause the bouncing idle, among other things.

AFTER THAT, do a search on idle. There are several things that can cause the idle to act weird: ISC, Boost/vacum leaks, tight throttle cable (mine was), ECU (mine did), and a few other things I don't recall cause I just woke up a few minutes ago.

But there is a troubleshooting checklist for idle here if you search.

Go thru the maintenance, inspect the ECU (immediately if possible), then go thru the idle checklist.

Maintenance: spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, set base idle, spark plug wires, PCV VALVE (and add a catchcan (search it).

When was the timing belt last done (need to start looking into that).

Welcome to the boards and welcome to DSM's. They are fun cars, and boost is addictive

And as far as the turbo is concerened; of course if it's only an actuator, that less expensive then a whole new turbo, so it's worth a try. Does the turbo boost well?

 

[tstkl]

yea my ecu was shot when i bought my car, left me stranded a couple of times...

 

[ran-o-matic]

Also check out the EGR valve. Mine was stuck open with Carbon build-up and had NO GASKET. EGR system problems will mess with idle, hot starts and fuel economy too.

 

[markGSX]

bad ISC?

 

[mojo jojo]

Hey guys, will this actuator fit on my laser rs?

http://www.dsmtuners.com/classifieds/showproduct.php?product=33387&sort=1&cat=7&page=1

i would appreciate a little feedback.

Jordan

 

[Spoolin4Ever]

We don't know if it's the actuator or the turbo. Replace the actuator to test first if you want to, it should be fairly cheap.

Is there a problem with the turbo? Is it boosting? You don't mention whether it's boosting ok or not. Is it just the visual aspect that concerns you? If it's just the way it looks, I would not even worry about it, because you will probably end up replacing the whole thing within the next year (unless you are really lucky). How many miles on it?

I don't know if the actuator from the 16G will work or not. Try to find one from a 14B, or post the question in the turbo tech section.

Turbo lifespan varies depending on how often the oil is changed, whether you use synthetic oil (you should), and whether or not the turbo is allowed to cool down before turning off the car (this can help extend life).

Having said that, I think about 100K is average lifespan for a Mitsu Turbo. Some people get less, some get more. Mine lasted till about 130K.

If you do end up having to replace the turbo, and if you want a stock replacement, the closet thing to that is a 16G. Might as well go with the EVO 3 16G, it's the best bang for your buck. About $550-$600 brand new.