Just bought a 1992 Ram 50 2.6 2WD.

I've recently noticed a random misfire at idle along with some white/grey smoke from the exhaust. This hasn't affected performance much.

The larger issue is a random loss of power: after truck is warmed up, at completely random times (highway speed, stop lights, etc) This will happen for 30 seconds or 20 minutes.

symptoms:

  • loss of 80% power
  • sputtering
  • backfire
  • strong gas odor
  • check engine light
  • large clouds of white smoke from exhaust
  • oil or gas dripping from exhaust manifold gasket


Other than this random, short lived, total system meltdown the truck drives like new. No coolant loss. No oil loss.

Replaced:

  • spark plugs
  • wires
  • fuel injectors


Possible issues:
  • injector coil
  • distributor cap and rotor (rotor shows signs of wear)


I am NOT a mechanic and have brought it to many mechanics with no help!!