I am thinking that my tps is bad b/c:

1. Doesn't start up right sometimes (drops to idle
in like 10sec)

2. It bucks for a second when you mash the gas
quickly or let off quickly

3. Major power loss from 3900-5600rpm! !
NOT A HESITATION

ANYWAY... Should I take a chance getting a used one, or should I get one new? How much are they? New and used?

Thanks if you can help,
Charles

 

There's quite a few threads going about the TPS. I would check yours out first to make a determination whether it is in need of replacement. Checking the TPS isn't anything too difficult if you have a multimeter. If not, you can purchase an inexpensive one and you'll be glad you did. The TPS new is very expensive, and used ones can be pot luck. As I said, check yours out first.

 

Here are my notes on the TPS:

Unplug the TPS connector.
Clip a cheap analog (needle type) VOM on the green & orange pins.
Set it to the 1K scale.
Hold off the throttle & work the short range TPS plunger in & out.
You should see a smooth sweep from ~0 to ~5K ohms.
Any bad spots or drop outs in the stroke - it's bad.
(Before you toss it, try spray contact cleaner between the sleeve & plunger.)

Find the fast idle (warm-up) cam & back it off so the throttle sits on the hard idle stop.
Adjust the setting to 1K ohms.
While holding off the fast idle cam, open & close the throttle a few time to see that the 1K setting repeats.