Very slow acceleration...HELP!

[96GSTLA]

Here's the deal...I have a '96 GS-T auto and am experiencing some pretty slow acceleration (my n/t feels faster then it off the line). The car feels like it is accelerating fine minus the speed (no knocking, shuddering, etc.). I'm pretty sure its not the transmission as it was recently re-built. Once the turbo spools up, I'm off like a bat out of hell. This only happens off the line and the car feels fine any other time. Does anyone have any ideas? Thanks in advance...

 

[Kapok6]

Are you sure it's not sensing phantom knock at all and retarding the timing?

 

[96GSTLA]

No I'm not positive that it is experiencing Phantom Knock. How do I find this out and what would be a solution to it? Thanks again...

 

[matt97gst]

automatic?
..they're pretty slow pre-boost in nature I think

 

[97spyder maayng]

When was the last time you changed your coolant? That could be it...worked for me.

 

[96GSTLA]

The coolant is good as far as I know as a used engine was placed in the car not that long ago. I'm thinking about just disconnecting the knock sensor to see if that elminiates the problem.

Speaking of it being slow and an auto, I understand that yes (no flames please) autos are slower off the line, but I also have a 97 RS and my RS is much faster off the line.

 

[byondevl]

Autos are slow off the line by nature. Powerbrake+restall =better

 

[destruckeclipse]

The coolant is good as far as I know as a used engine was placed in the car not that long ago. I'm thinking about just disconnecting the knock sensor to see if that elminiates the problem.

Speaking of it being slow and an auto, I understand that yes (no flames please) autos are slower off the line, but I also have a 97 RS and my RS is much faster off the line.

Is the RS an auto or stick? Have you checked timing and basic stuff? Maybe it's in need of a tune up.

 

[ddavisaf]

Yeah, I would suggest looking at the plugs and wires and making sure they're not fouled. I've got an auto and I've never really had slow take offs. You should go over the car and make sure your basic tune up maintenance is up to par.
Plugs / Wires
Air Filter
etc...

 

[96GSTLA]

My 97 is an auto also. Do you think it could be of an incorrect spark plug gap? What is it supposed to be? .28 - .32, right?

 

[gixrman]

Checked for a boost leak? I know mine feels like slug pre boost if I have a leak.