[88merc]

something is really wrong with my 88 cougar. it has the 5.0(non-ho) it has absoulutly no power. its not safe to drive because its sooooo slow. it runs rough and smokes just a litlle bit. the oil is clean, compression test was perfect and i dont loose coolant. so the head gaskets are good. im getting spark, but thats what it sounds like. please help!!!

[vipereater86]

soundls like u need to get a new car. :wink

[dr.gonzo]

if it is smoking I would say the piston rigns and double check your compression. the reason you have no power is probobly due to no compression/or no spark missfire. it also helps if you can if all 8 pistons are actually fireing. is it smoking from the tailpipe or in the engine bay? do you see any oil leaks in the enigine bay? if it is ideling rough check the timing and o2 sen if that is ok then check your computer. if it is like my 88 mustang it should be by the passenger kick panel. give it a tune up or atleast start with the sparkplugs with the right gap and work your way back to the distributor

[88merc]

plugs/wires are good. rings are good. it also pops out the intake(backfire) while its running.its not a major backfire, but its backfiring. timing is right(timing light says so)lol. im guessin its the o2 sensor.

[Stangzilla]

Are you checking the timing with the jumper out on the distributor? I think that year has one. I have a 93 Mustang I am not sure about your year someone correct me if I am wrong....
If that dont work get a new ride.... LOL!!