[flyinbrian69]

I have a '97 cavalier 2.2L that runs and starts good, but, under load and lower rpm (1500-2500)it jerks the car with sharp and quick power loss surges along with the odd backfire. Then at high rpm is good acceleration and power. Now with 220000kms, I think after investigating that the timing chain may be worn or stretched. Is this a common problem with these symptoms and mileage? Note that I have replaced spark plugs, air and fuel filter, PCV valve and checked wires. Any info is appreciated. Thank You.

[brandy681]

I have a '97 cavalier 2.2L that runs and starts good, but, under load and lower rpm (1500-2500)it jerks the car with sharp and quick power loss surges along with the odd backfire. Then at high rpm is good acceleration and power. Now with 220000kms, I think after investigating that the timing chain may be worn or stretched. Is this a common problem with these symptoms and mileage? Note that I have replaced spark plugs, air and fuel filter, PCV valve and checked wires. Any info is appreciated. Thank You.

I think it is the transmission although I am not sure. 1997 Chevrolet Cavaliers are junk, I woud trade trade it in asap before the engine blows up.

[flyinbrian69]

It is a manual transmission, I am certain that the clutch is not slipping. But thanks anyway.

[J_9]

Same thing happened to my '97 cavalier Brian. It finally died last August.

[flyinbrian69]

OK, but I'm looking for a direct problem, like a component failure. Was the timing chain going then you said it died, this could mean bent valves and such. Did you send it to the junk yard after it died? Or was there a repair or something?

[J_9]

There had been MANY repairs done to it and it never worked right. The transmission went out, the serpentine belt broke, the alternator... you name it. When I would drive down the street and the engine would cut off I knew it was time to trade it in.

Anyway, I hope Txgreasemonkey sees this post, he was very helpful to me in my time of need. He is very helpful and very informative.

[flyinbrian69]

Right, the transmission, drive belt or alternator are not going to cause the problem I have. Can you get a hold of Txgreasemonkey or someone who's maybe worked on these cars to give me advice. Thanks for trying to help though.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Based on mileage and symptoms, I would test/replace the Ignition Control Module (igniter):

Zip Code Entry at PartsAmerica.com

I would also test/replace the coil:

Zip Code Entry at PartsAmerica.com

Many AutoZones can test igniters and coils for free. If you feel the car is basically a "keeper," I would just replace these components.

[flyinbrian69]

That sounds good, if the ignition control module can fail only under these conditions than I will try that and let you know. That would be easier than replacing the timing chain. Thank You.

[brandy681]

How many miles does the car have on it? It is a Cavalier, I would trade it because you will have more problems with this car

[flyinbrian69]

Well the car was paid off a long time ago, Im not a ford person. So anything I buy will cost me more money anyway. I am the second owner now with 220000 kms. Also I found the problem.
I replaced the spark plugs awile ago, this fixed the problem for about 1 hour of engine run time. Number 2 wire was causing the spark plug to crack, just like someone used a pencil and made lines on the upper white area. So when I said I checked the wires I only did a visual which it looks the same as the others. Today I replaced the wires and number 2 spark plug that was cracked. Good to go.

[flyinbrian69]

The #2 spark plug cracked awile ago and I replaced them all. The wires looked good but apparently the wire made #2 plug crack again. So I replaced all 4 wires and that cracked plug. It's all good now. Thanks for the help.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Glad you solved the problem. With proper maintenance, most GM cars are very reliable and will give you years of service.

[billy1]

I have a '97 cavalier 2.2L that runs and starts good, but, under load and lower rpm (1500-2500)it jerks the car with sharp and quick power loss surges along with the odd backfire. Then at high rpm is good acceleration and power. Now with 220000kms, I think after investigating that the timing chain may be worn or stretched. Is this a common problem with these symptoms and mileage? Note that I have replaced spark plugs, air and fuel filter, PCV valve and checked wires. Any info is appreciated. Thank You.

Had this problem with mine a few days ago.Time chain was gone Also thought it was wires and plugs

[flyinbrian69]

Well I didn't think it was the plugs cause I just did them. I thought it was the chain but found the wire damaged the new plug.

[maxximuss]

The transmision in my cav 96 is slipping when I go to change into 2nd(automatic), and it will also some times down shift rather odly, I know that mine needs rebuilt. I think the converter is gone. But maybe your low rpm could be coming from a similar problem. Wasn't sure because you did not say transaxle type. Did the spark plug fix up the back fire?

[Cam_cam]

I have a '97 cavalier 2.2L that runs and starts good, but, under load and lower rpm (1500-2500)it jerks the car with sharp and quick power loss surges along with the odd backfire. Then at high rpm is good acceleration and power. Now with 220000kms, I think after investigating that the timing chain may be worn or stretched. Is this a common problem with these symptoms and mileage? Note that I have replaced spark plugs, air and fuel filter, PCV valve and checked wires. Any info is appreciated. Thank You.

Your timing is usually off at around 180,000kms, But before you get into changing
It you should make sure you know what your getting into, you need to take the wheel well off and drop your manifold, loosen off your engine mounts, take off most off your pulleys and drop your oil pan just to get at the timing chain cover. But it sounds like that's your problem.