Hiya folks,

Picked up an 89 vert dirt cheap, bone stock, Cali car. Beautiful condition, everything works. A rotorhead's dream score, really.
I have a history in the rotary community as an FB carb builder, but I know nothing of the FC.
The magical tach goes to 9K, but I can't get past 7K rpm, and that's with a little down hill help!
Is my fuel filter dirty? I don't know when it was last changed, but I also don't know where it's located.

There's more...

I hear an intermittent spark clicking noise when the hood is up. I haven't looked at it in the dark to try to catch where the arcs are, but is this a common problem that someone can give me tips on?

Thanks.

 

fule filter is located directly below brake booster on the frame rail.

 

Check the 5/6th port and VDI system. If they are stuck closed, power at higher RPM will suffer. Same applies if the previous owner tampered with any of the emissions equipment (they use the air pressure from the air pump, routed through various hoses, ACV, and solenoids). As for the spark problem, if the wires are old maybe that is the cause? Could be other things in the engine bay clicking around.

 

the 6 ports wouldn't have anything to do with not being able to get past 7k.
try fuel system first...
fuel filter, fuel pump voltage (there is a writeup somewhere on re-wiring the fuel pump) also, check the engine grounds. or, just re-ground the block to the frame.

 

So is my perception of a problem correct? I mean, I should be able to blast past 7K RPM easily in 1st & 2nd gear, right?

 

Sterling! Welcome!

I'd look into the fuel system (Simply because it's cheap to replace a fuel filter)
I'd also look into that ignition issue.

Try and see if you can find the arcing in the dark.

Wires are cheap too. You should DEFINITELY be able to blast past redline in low gear...

How does it perform free revving with no load on the engine?

 

Hey Pele,

Haven't tached it out in the driveway yet, but it seems fine. Goes past 7K. Hard to get used to after all those years with an aluminum flywheel. lol
I figured it should tach out at least in first & second, though.