(Home) Engine revs itself (Sp+)

I have a Space Cruiser GL - F Reg Automatic. Engine sweet as a bell - auto gearbox fine - but sometimes the engine seems to drive itself - i.e. like the choke is still on - this does not happen all the time - usually when the vehicle has been driven a little harder - the revs in Drive are anything between 1500 and 3500 with foot off the accelerator pedal, if I take it out of drive the rev counter can jump to 5000 revs with foot off the accelerator pedal. Other times it is fine - starts fine - switches off fine. Other times the car handles fine, with foot off accelerator in Drive but stationary the rev counter is around 900 revs. I believe that this has something to do with a pressure/vacuum system (maybe) as I have noticed that the oil level gauge does tend to fluctuate - i.e. if it is reading low - the engine is fine - if it is in the normal bit - the engine over revs. Anyone got any clues what I should look for on this one - please.

- (#5510) David Leggett, 13 Sep 02

I had a similar problem that was found to be one of the vacuum pipes fouling the throttle linkage and not allowing it to return fully every time. Get some one to press the accelerator while you watch what moves. Could also be faulty fuel cut off solinoid, dirt in fuel system, but I don't suspect that would take it to 5000 revs, more likely a jammed throttle external or if unlucky internal.
HTH Clive

- (#5511) clive, 15 Sep 02

See message titled Turbo Noise. Rob made an interesting observation that if oil was getting in (from the sump) it would burn the oil revving uncontrolabley (that doesn't look spelt right?). Not being savvy with such things I couldn't comment, but Rob certainly seems to know what he's on about. Worth a look.

- (#5607) Dave B, 22 Sep 02

Dave, thanks for input on this, but I suspect that as the vehicle is a Spacey not a Townie it is most likely to be a petrol engine, therefore no turbo & no chance of oil burning in this way. It is most likely a problem with something sticking or fouling the throttle linkage. Regards Rob.

- (#5608) Rob Drinkwater, 22 Sep 02