The owner had driven about 5 km after buying the vehicle when the engine started misfiring and popping through the intake. At our Hamilton workshop, removing the rocker cover revealed bent and broken pushrods.
The damaged parts were easy to see. Finding out why the engine still would not run properly took the investigation further.
The problem continued after replacing the pushrods
We fitted replacement pushrods and checked the camshaft and lifters, but the running problem remained. Replacing the visibly damaged parts had not resolved it.
Further investigation led us to conclude that the engine needed a replacement cylinder head. We recommended that work.
The head replacement had not been carried out at the time of this write-up.
That is the important part of this job: the diagnosis did not end when we found the bent and broken pushrods. The continuing symptoms meant there was more to understand.
What this means for a car owner
A misfire or popping through the intake is a symptom worth describing carefully. This was the finding on this particular engine; another car with a similar symptom needs its own diagnosis.
When you contact a workshop, a few details help build the picture:
When the problem started and how far you had driven
Whether the engine was cold or warm
Whether it happens at idle, while accelerating or all the time
Any recent work and whether the symptoms changed afterwards
If the engine suddenly starts running badly or making unusual mechanical noises, stop somewhere safe and contact the workshop for advice about the next step.
Help with running problems in Hamilton
Speedwell Tune and Service Centre in Frankton investigates engine running problems and carries out repairs on most makes and models, including older cars. Call 07 846 2137 to tell us what your car is doing and discuss a booking.
Diagnostics and fault finding at Speedwell | Request a booking
