850 surge/lag under load

[shegarty]

plugs were done shortly before i picked it up a year ago - she's in for an emission test here in ontario today so if she fails i will think about replacing the 02 sensor - would a malfunctioning 02 sensor cause that much of a drivability issue without tripping the CEL??? come to think of it is the CEL light burnt out??? don't think there were any codes last time i checked ... wish me luck on the test

[shegarty]

looks like all the finger crossing in the world won't help me - she failed the etest on hydrocarbons (twice the limit) - makes me think that an 02 sensor is indeed in need of replacement as this would indicate a rich running condition - she doesn't burn any oil that i am aware of but she does throw a bit (clogged PCV most likely and maybe the rear main seal as a result) - would either of these contribute to the high HC reading???

[jblackburn]

I believe a severely clogged PCV could cause that to happen. When really clogged up, they'll blow smoke out the exhaust.

It's time to do some basic maintenance - change and gap spark plugs (cheap insurance; they're like $8 for 5 of them.) Use Bosch Super Copper plugs.

If the running matters don't improve, I'd go after the O2 sensor. And tackle that PCV before you start blowing engine seals EVERYWHERE. Leaking oil everywhere really get on my nerves - I've never seen a car leak as many fluids as mine has at some point or another.