Is it likely that an injector would stick intermittently, and if so, would it cause knocking, pinging, or detonation? My timing seems to be changing under different load conditions also. Sometimes it runs for days without a problem and then all of a sudden it won't take gas, check engine comes on and it seems the timing freaks out. maybe it's a combination of things because it seems to do it more when it's hot outside or while driving in the rain. '90 L98 w/auto trans.

 

Things to do:
#1 - have the code(s) checked. That will probably tell you what and maybe even where the problem is. Too many things that will cause some of your problems to start guessing.

 

Yes it is possible, and will cause knocking and pinging and what seems like an ignition miss. On my 90 L98 I had a injector that was sticking open intermittently and it caused these symptoms and threw a code 45 (rich exhaust) due to the excess fuel flooding that one cylinder. After pulling my hair out checking everything electrical, ignition, plug wires, plugs, injector pulse and finding no problems. I finally found it by listening to the injectors with a home made mechanics stethoscope. What you'll hear from the good injectors at idle is a steady "tic-a tic-a tic-a" and if ones sticking it will be a "tic-a tic-a tic-a..occasional pause..tic-a tic-a tic-a". You may have to listen to each injector for up to 5 minutes to catch one sticking. Mine would do it like every 15 seconds or so.

A new set of Accel 24 lbs/hr. injectors fixed my baby right up. If you have one bad injector I would suggest replacing all.

Your symptoms could be many things so check for codes, and if no codes or a code 45 are thrown, try listening to your injectors. Because just checking for ECM injector pulse will not reveal if one is sticking. Good luck.

 

Sounds to me like you have an intermittant problem that is setting a code, and throwing you into limp home mode.

Its obviously a "soft" code that will reset itself and the car will run ok again. Probably a code 43, having to do with the knock sensor or ESC.

check your codes as others have suggested and let us know what you find.

 

'preciate it fellows. Trying to straighten this thing out before Carlisle. I do believe it's one injector so I'll pull the codes and do some listening. Don't think I'll get injectors replaced this week though if that is the problem.