Check engine light comes on and engine sputters
 

So I just got a 1990 RX convert. It is in pretty good shape. Runs pretty well but I do have an issue where is sputters, does not stall, and the check engine light comes on. Also, sometimes with i fire it up i get the bright white smoke both under the hood and especially out of the tail pipes. This i think is an issue with the seal and radiator fluid is burning off. I can replace the seal and see. The sputtering and engine light I just don't know where to start.

lastly has anyone ever had the convt top motor fail or stop working. Mine has not worked since i got it. Wondering if you can test to see if it is an easy fix or a full replace. Great news is this was a $1000 car so huge deal on an RX7 Covt with 130k miles and runs, top and body is in very good shape. Cheers and thanks so very much for any and all help.

welcome to the board. :)

congrats on the deal you got. i actually watch the Convertible prices every so often, so i know what most people are asking for them. good for you. post some photos when you get a chance.

first, if you don't already have a copy, here is a link to the FSM: Foxed.ca

for your convertible top issues, i would start with the FSM and see what to troubleshoot.

for the smoking, you mentioned a "seal". which seal are you referring to? if you're talking about the coolant o-rings, then the engine has to come apart for that - just a heads up. i think the S5 cars have coolant running through the intake manifold, so is that the seal you were referring to? if so, then yes, that's a pretty easy fix.

finally, for your "sputtering" issue, you mentioned a check engine light. there is a process to retrieve the code, so start there. again, the FSM should be your first move. is the sputtering more like a sudden loss of power that happens when you try to get on it? does it sometimes go back to normal after you shut the car off? if so, then it might be your MOP (metering oil pump).

hope some of this helps.