Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.
Manuals through 2025 now available!

Our trusted friends have launched a new website named LEMON, which has newer manuals. It also contains all the CHARM manuals.

LEMON is the spiritual successor to CHARM, I recommend you try it!

Link: lemon-manuals.la or lemon-manuals.org.ua

(Some people have issue connecting. LEMON is investigating. For now, use Firefox or change your DNS server)

Or, hide this message: temporarily or permanently

Lack of Power, Sluggishness, or Sponginess

DEFINITION: Engine delivers less than expected power.

^ Verify customer's vehicle has an actual problem by comparing it to a similar vehicle.

Check:
^ Air filter for restriction
^ Restricted fuel filter, contaminated fuel or improper fuel pressure
^ Exhaust system for restriction
^ Secondary voltage using a spark tester and jumper wires to check voltage output of the secondary coils
^ Generator charging output voltage. Repair if less than 13 volts or more than 16 volts with engine running and all accessories Off.
^ Verify engine has no mechanical knock or spark knock. If knock is present engine timing will be retarded and loss of power will result.
^ Engine valve timing, compression or worn camshaft. Refer to engine.
^ Worn spark plugs