I have an '86 base model (power nothing, no AC...) that has been driving me nuts for quite a long time.

I finally figured out what the problem was, however I am wondering whether my TPS is acting normally.

The problem was that the TPS was being pushed in too far (foot completely off the throttle) and was sticking in that position. So naturally, when you open up the throttle, the TPS would still be telling the ECU that the throttle was closed, so it was choking out and couldn't make it past 1500rpm.

I "fixed" it by loosening up the TPS adjustment spring pretty much as far as the screw length will let me, so that it doesn't get pushed in too far and stick.

Is the TPS SUPPOSED to be sticking like that? Should I be looking for a new one?

The car runs perfect other than this...

 

no, look for a properly functioning tps

 

search you f&*(ing noob this questions been asked like 50 billion times

 

u r rong

I guess I'll spray some WD40 into it and hope for the best.

If not, better guard your car

 

Nice flame on the poor schmuck, Melicha8 !

Actually, I wouldn't spray WD40 in the TPS. Get some contact cleaner at your local Radio Shack and spray that into the TPS. Then adjust it and the idle speed. If that doesn't help, then you've probably got a trashed TPS.

 

I had the same problem with mine. I put some lubricant on it which seemed to help. But it's not the same as it used to be. I just bought one off ebay.
My advice is buy a diffrent one. You should be able to pick one up under $50 bucks. They would be cheaper but there a damn miata upgrade.

Feel free to ask more ? even if you are a newb. Just remember to answer ? down the road for other newbie's.

 

I've had the exact same problem. It would only happen on very hot days. Just clean the gunk off of both plungers with a Q-tip and some contact/electronics parts cleaner then apply some lubricant. I've been using WD-40 without a problem but I DONT believe that it is optimal.