I think I have a timing issue

[dustytony]

Hey guys, 86 2.5L Renix 5spd. The truck has a rough idle, putters when accelerating but occasionally jumps back into normal operation and then putters again. At higher rpms it seems to be ok, but definitely feels sluggish. I changed the fuel filter just as a starting point but little to no difference. I just bought it in July and the guy said he had just changed plugs, wires, and distributor(and had a 14 year long log of all work done to it with receipts, so I trust it). Any suggestions on where to start looking first?

[Pete M]

did it do this when you bought it or just now?

[dustytony]

Just now.

[Pete M]

 in the link in my signature you'll find Cruiser's tips for renix Jeeps.  I would run through those first.   

[dustytony]

I’ve been planning on rolling through those when I have time, even have it bookmarked, but was hoping maybe there was something I wasn’t thinking of or heard of yet that might contribute to this issue.

[Ωhm]

Check the spray pattern of the injector using a flashlight. Spray pattern should be cone shaped and fine mist (no fuel droplets). See if pattern changes when vehicle runs poorly.

[Pete M]

also in the link should be some testing procedures for the various sensors.  

[dustytony]

Thanks guys, I’ll get to that first thing tomorrow

[cruiser54]

Don't wait on doing the Tips. Do them first. 

The firewall ground is huge on the 4 cylinders for some reason.

 

also, inspect the hoses below the throttle body and make sure your intake manifold bolts haven't loosened up.