1987 4runner sputtering/jerking

my 87 4runner started having a light sputtering problem that turned into me now not being able to drive it. at idle its fine but when i start to drive it down the road at about 2500 it starts sputtering and jerking with no power. i have replaced the plugs they were black nasty like its running rich. also new cap and rotor. i have a check light that comes on for a few goes back off for about 5 mins. also my front 02 sensor wire is a bit fucked.. maybe that is my problem? i need help before i keep spending money on it.

 

Welcome.

 

Start with the O2 sensor. Sometimes it’s a trial and error process.

 

Welcome - Could be the Igniter, That's the little black box on top of the coil and if it is bad, it's most likely the pick up in the distributor that's frying it. I went through 2 used igniters to learn this. Replaced both distributor and igniter with new OEM parts for $850 in my 85.

 

Also, when an O2 sensor goes bad the only thing that happens is your mileage goes to hell, it does not really change the way the car runs.

 

Check your intake tubing.

My brother had an '87 Corolla that somehow got a crack in the air intake tubing. It would jerk and sputter under acceleration, due to the mass air sensor giving a bad reading.

And, welcome to the forum!

 

Find someone who has on OBD-2 code reader. The truck may be able to tell you what’s wrong with it. Some auto parts stores will check the codes for you (assuming you’ll buy the parts from them).

 

Fuel filter.

 

thanks everyone, got a new 02 in it today started running better i guess it was in a limp mode. but ran into another problem my throttle position sensor was a little lose i replaced it not to long ago the guy before me didn't have the right bolts in it so ill be finding some tomorrow to tighten that up. I'm going to go ahead a get a new fuel filter because I'm at about 178000 miles and have no idea if the guy before me ever changed it. ill up date after and see if my problems have gone away. I'm still going to look into all the other things everyone has suggested because it docent seem he took every good care it. can't hurt to look thanks again for all the help everyone.