Where to start? First things first.

[JuuCeD82ReGaL]

Ok I just recently bought a buick regal that has a 3.8L v6. The car has obviously been abused pretty bad. I seen that it ran before putting it on the trailer but, we had push it on because it wont stay running. We put some gas in the carb and it finally started but had to keep foot on the gas so it wouldnt die out. So like it did sound like it was sputtering and was lacking power when revving it in park . Anyhow when it was running we put it in gear and it immediately boggs out. Everytime. So I take it home which is today and decide to check a few things out. First the plugs were full of f$@kin gas and oil? Im hearing that means rings are shot and gas and oil is getting past pistons? Also, the spark plug gaps were pretty wide I didnt measure but just looking at it there was a big *ss gap on them. How should they be at spec? And the distributor timing? Is that hard to do and would that play a huge part in what im going through? the cap is new and plug wires from what the previous owner said and the looks of it. Maybe the idiot threw it off??? Someone please guide me in the right direction.

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[megaladon6]

plugs may simply be old and worn out. that causes weak spark which causes them to foul. get new plugs and a new PCV valve. they're cheap enough. see how it runs then. or just go the preferred route and put in a sbc 350ci. 😀 i'd also get a repair manual for the timing specs and procedures. but from what you're describing---DO THE PLUGS and pcv!

 

[JuuCeD82ReGaL]

Ok thanks alot. I will try that. I did manage install a fuel filter today and looking into a fuel pump. Any more suggestions anyone would be helpful!

 

[KrisW]

As a veteran Buick guy, first things first.

The gaps on Buick plugs are wide on purpose. Usually .060 with electronic ignition due to combustion chamber design. Just replace them with AC DELCO plugs, the factory replacements.R45TSX.

Next, replace the fuel filter (inside the fuel inlet of the carburetor) and air filter.

Now, how does it run?

Next, set timing and carburetor. Buy the chilton's manual for your car for instructions and specs.

I always take the exhaust off completely at the beginning as well. With plugs like you're describing, you may have a plugged catalytic converter or muffler.

Do this and post your results.

 

[KrisW]

...or just go the preferred route and put in a sbc 350ci. 😀 ...

Don't do that!

Buy my Buick 350 instead AND JUST BOLT IT IN WITH NO WORRIES!

 

[JuuCeD82ReGaL]

...or just go the preferred route and put in a sbc 350ci. 😀 ...

Don't do that!

Buy my Buick 350 instead AND JUST BOLT IT IN WITH NO WORRIES!

Ok just bring it to georgia and help me put it in! Plenty of beer too!

 

[JuuCeD82ReGaL]

As a veteran Buick guy, first things first.

The gaps on Buick plugs are wide on purpose. Usually .060 with electronic ignition due to combustion chamber design. Just replace them with AC DELCO plugs, the factory replacements.R45TSX.

Next, replace the fuel filter (inside the fuel inlet of the carburetor) and air filter.

Now, how does it run?

Next, set timing and carburetor. Buy the chilton's manual for your car for instructions and specs.

I always take the exhaust off completely at the beginning as well. With plugs like you're describing, you may have a plugged catalytic converter or muffler.

Do this and post your results.

I have been reading the chiltons on the distributer cap and the timing stuff and it seems hard to me. finding tdc and such. Any easy explanations

 

[KrisW]

Don't worry about that stuff yet. Replace the plugs and filters and see how it runs first.

Then if you're still having the problem, disconnect the exhaust. Then see how it runs.

After that, we'll go as deep as you want about TDC.

Oh, and yeah, replace that PCV and the breather filter while you're at it!

 

[JuuCeD82ReGaL]

Don't worry about that stuff yet. Replace the plugs and filters and see how it runs first.

Then if you're still having the problem, disconnect the exhaust. Then see how it runs.

After that, we'll go as deep as you want about TDC.

Oh, and yeah, replace that PCV and the breather filter while you're at it!

Explain what the pcv and breather filter are about. How much for the new pcv? filter? I will replace the plugs in the morning before work and try to crank it. Im worried about the choke and whatnot on the carb. The sh*t looks faulty and wonder if I need some one to hold something shut like the choke? And with these oldere cars how much am I giving it gas to get them started. I know I dont keep pumping it cuz then it will flood. Any guess on how much I can find a used 3.8 with good mileage for nowadays???? I also dont have a air filter box. So do i have to get a chromed out one that I see at the auto parts stores??? Will they fit?

 

[KrisW]

Go to the junkyard and get a stock air cleaner housing.

The PCV goes in the valve cover and hooks to the intake. It sucks out blow by gases(for lack of better definition at this time) and allows those gases from the oil pan to be burned in the engine. It helps the engine run clean and stay clean inside. It costs about 2 bucks, so ask for a PCV and a crankcase filter (another 2 bucks) and replace them both.

When you get your junkyard air cleaner housing you can hook up the tubes from it to the valve cover and your crankcase filter will hook to that. When you get yours from the junkyard, it will make sense.