Coming home from work today on the interstate I noticed two things: first, my exhaust began sounding as if it has a leak, and second (more importantly) I lost acceleration. I had the gas pedal floored (didn't matter which gear), and the car just did not want to go faster. When I got off the interstate, the rest of the way home was the same way. Any time I pressed the gas pedal, I had very little acceleration (I felt like a turtle) and my exhaust sounded as if it has a leak. Later I took the car out and it was fine until it warmed up, then the same thing happened.

Can anyone clue me in on what may be causing this? I have an '87 NA with no mods, and the plugs & plug wires are less than a year old. I need help and appreciate any input from you guys!!

 

Do you have a cat, and if so, have you checked for blockage?

 

Check fuel delivery. It starts sounding like a tin can when it leans out

 

I thought maybe the cat was blocked, but would that cause such a dramatic decrease in acceleration? I guess if you can't get the air flow out, you can't get as much in. Is there any way to check for blockage other than taking it off? Thanks for the help.

 

Sometimes cats will glow red when blocked badly, so you could check for that at night. Or you could take it off and see and if it is just gut it at least until you have money for a new one.