Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting Troubleshooting my 2000 SE

I bought this 2000 Contour SE with a auto&ZETEC combo. It has 33,000 miles on it. My problem is that after it drops down into O/D ,around 50 MPH, it tends to feel like it is not "hitting" on all cylinders going under "load" ,like up a knol,hill or grade. It's not learching just not running as well as I would like. I've got a induction cleaning done,changed plugs,changed fuel filter, 4-wheel alignment,tires rebalanced.Anyone like Firestone tires??Could someone have any ideas??? IT REALLY BUGS ME!!!

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Aside from the more obvious possibilities, sometimes engine oil deposits can cause the VCT to become sluggish or hang up. Look for varnish buildup. An engine flush may take care of it.


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Variable Cam Timing changes with RPM and affects the power-band. Lack of power when RPM's drop suggest it could be sluggish.