2.2/2.5 engine

[88 aries]

i know alot about these cars and the engines but one thing i cant seem to figure out, why does the 2.2 or a 2.5 gallop when cold. Both of mine do it (both are summer cars no salt)

[89ARIES]

I have the same problem. My car has always "galloped" a little and predicatably when it is below 50 degrees. It may even do it a little up to 55F. It will run rich a short while with some fuel smell and exhaust, but once it warms up, performance is excellent and starts up in a second. Gas mileage is good around 25 mpg and it never fails to start in cold weather. I have owned my Aries since August 2003. I got it with 52,000 miles and it now has 115,000 miles. Some folks at the forum at http://www.allpar.com would have a better answer for you. Allpar is the online Chrysler enthusaist club and they are a sponsor of the Chrysler K Car Club.

K car engines are unique in that they are quirky. People who are unfamiliar with these engines think they sound unhealthy. The fact is, they are sensitive to cold weather and the fuel is trying to get to the engine. Also, these engines have the clanky sound that sounds like a mild tapping. People who are unfamiliar with the K car engine think it is a rod going out. It is normal mild piston slap. Now, if it is very loud, then something obviously is wrong. I love the way K cars run smooth and they are comfortable. You can also check or own check engine light. It is very easy.

K car engines are noted for longevity and if serviced properly, can last hundreds of thousands of miles. The important things to check that can lead to an early demise is the thermostat, water pump, and head gasket. Head gaskets are aluminum and tend to fail. However, usually they can be caught early before any damage is done to the motor. Also, when a timing belt breaks, it does not thrash the engine to oblivion like other cars. It is a good idea to check the thermostat with every oil change. I can go on and on. I am not a mechanic, but this is what I have learned over the years.

[MoparDan]

K car engines are unique in that they are quirky. People who are unfamiliar with these engines think they sound unhealthy. The fact is, they are sensitive to cold weather and the fuel is trying to get to the engine. Also, these engines have the clanky sound that sounds like a mild tapping. People who are unfamiliar with the K car engine think it is a rod going out. It is normal mild piston slap. Now, if it is very loud, then something obviously is wrong. I love the way K cars run smooth and they are comfortable. You can also check or own check engine light. It is very easy.

K car engines are noted for longevity and if serviced properly, can last hundreds of thousands of miles. The important things to check that can lead to an early demise is the thermostat, water pump, and head gasket. Head gaskets are aluminum and tend to fail. However, usually they can be caught early before any damage is done to the motor. Also, when a timing belt breaks, it does not thrash the engine to oblivion like other cars. It is a good idea to check the thermostat with every oil change. I can go on and on. I am not a mechanic, but this is what I have learned over the years.

thanks for the great info!

[Jacks1986Lebaron]

Are either throwing any codes?

If not, could be partially clogged injectors!

My 1986 lebaron, starts right up and I can start out with no problems.

[dodgeariesguy]

Its not codes or injectors even my grandpa said his did that straight from the dealer with 120km on it. LOL I just asked him a few seconds ago...thats funny.

[Butch]

Incorrect idle spd ( too low ).

[Jacks1986Lebaron]

Its not codes or injectors even my grandpa said his did that straight from the dealer with 120km on it. LOL I just asked him a few seconds ago...thats funny.

Wonder why your Grandpa's did that straight from the factory and my 23 y.o. Lebaron doesn't do it at all???

Mine starts up without touching the accelarator, and idles perfect every time! Smooth as silk!

Even in the dead of winter here in Tennessee and the car has 88,000 miles on it!

[dodgeariesguy]

I don't know... but mine does it too even before/after engine rebuild by a 1980's Chrysler tech (my boss). Maybe its just certain engines? Any thoughts on that everybody?

[Jacks1986Lebaron]

Mine is a 2.5 TBI.

[dodgeariesguy]

So's mine lol I meant the build local/quality.