My 1987 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe with 74k miles and an automatic transmission moves slower the harder I press the gas pedal. The gas position for optimal speed is a light press (about 10% throttle). The engine doesn't rev above 3000 rpm unless it is in neutral. The car doesn't go above 50 miles per hour on the highway and took 16 seconds to get there. As it hits the upper rev limit the check engine light will turn on but only for about 2800 rpm and above. After the check engine light turns on it will turn right off if I take my foot off the throttle or brake. The idle isn't rough. The boost gauge has registered only 5 (whatever unit it is in). I don't know where to start.
Start with the turbo - a failed/failing turbo would tend to block normal exhaust flow, and that would cause problems like those you are reporting.
If the turbo checks out, next check for a clogged catalytic converter.
Glen_stet, Thanks you are right it is something with the turbo system. I got the car safety inspected and the guy said "This thing has no balls the turbo is messed up." I need to diagnose the issue further this week.
can you take the turbo off and make a normal engine out of it? ask your mechanic.
