Hey guys, I'm new to the forum. Love what you people do to help everyone, Thanks in advance. Problem is, a little bit of a rough idle and lately I've noticed that the van sputters when driving with a little bit of throttle (going 60 km/h, and enough throttle to keep speed). There seems to be NO misfire or sputter when hard accelerating. The van is an '05 GC SXT 3.8L with 55000 kms on it. Read it might be the valves spring and rockers or simply the plugs. Would these problems not be noticable in all driving conditions. Thanks for any direction. Sorta cash strapped, my husband just bought a P.O.S. or should i say "project car"...lol

 

Welcome to DF
I would try cleaning the throttle body and AIS (Automatic Idle Speed) motor. Also take a look at the air filter too. This is just a start.

 

Thanks, i will check these and post any results.

 

Do you have any type of Service engine soon light on? If not I would start with a simple ignition tune up-- spark plugs and wires...then go from there...

 

The filter looks new, the throttle body isn't too dirty(thin layer of residue), the AIS may be a problem, although it never stalls. Plugs are probably neccesary as they are original. The engine light came on for one trip ONLY and didn't come on when I noticed the sputtering. I will get a reader and find out what it has to say. I would like to think, that since it only has 55000 km's, that it is still like new, but I have had to the dealer for so much already(warranty), nothing would surprise me.

 

I've replaced the plugs in my 05 GC every 30K miles and am surprised at the wear I find, even using premium plugs. Also, when you check the throttle body for carbon make sure to remove it and look on the back side, the front side typically looks clean and the back side is filthy.

If you have original plugs my bet is worn plugs.

 

thanks 05van , i will change them, when i have an hour or so. When you change yours are the back ones a pain to get at. Also, do you use carb cleaner, i heard that wasn't good for the motor.