Cuts Out, Misses

If exhaust has a steady spitting sound at idle or low speed. If a pulsation or steady jerking that follows engine speed, that usually exists as engine load increases, check the following items:

• Perform VISUAL/PHYSICAL INSPECTION .
• Check spray pattern from fuel injector(s).
• Start engine. Run until stabilized. Using insulated pliers, remove plug wires one at a time. If there's about a 50 RPM drop on all cylinders, see ROUGH, UNSTABLE OR INCORRECT IDLE  STALLING. If there is no RPM drop or an excessive drop, check for spark at suspect cylinder(s).
• Check condition of spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap or rotor.
• Ensure spark plug wire resistance does not exceed 25,000-30,000 ohms.
• Check for defective ignition wiring or connections.
• Check ignition system for moisture, dust, cracks burns, etc. If no problem is found, start engine and spray secondary ignition system with water to check for shorts.
• Check for low fuel pressure and/or possible plugged fuel filter.
• Check fuel for water contamination.
• Check valve clearance adjustment.
• Check for low compression.
• Ensure valve timing is okay.
• Check engine for worn camshaft lobes, valves, bent push rods, broken or weak valve springs, pistons, etc.
• Check intake and exhaust manifold passage for casting flash.