after replacing head due to spark plug blowout engine is running rough at idle. replaced fuel filter and that seemed to help, engine still lacks power at lower rpm. i can't find any vacuum leaks, intake bolts are all properly tightened, all coil packs are plugged in as well as the injectors. while trying to figure out the problem i have disconnected the coils on passenger side one at a time, this doesn't seem to have an effect on the way the engine is running. it runs like the passenger side head is out of time so i tore back into it and checked the timing, everything lines up according to the book. the check engine light is not on, i don't know where to look next.

 

Maybe put a timing light on there and see what's up?? I would have guessed vacuum too........ Go over all the electrical connections again? Maybe knocked some dirt lose in the fuel rail/injectors? Could be a lot of things. Maybe just run it as is and hope the problem magnifies itself, or eventually throws a code....

 

For giggles, take the oil filler cap off while its running and spray some carb cleaner in to see if that helps the idle. If that helps, possible intake gasket leak.

 

thanks for the suggestions, i was thinking the fuel rail to the passenger side was partially clogged, because that side is not affected by plugging/unplugging coil packs or injectors, is there a good way to clean that?

 

sea foam

 

Put a vacuum gauge on it at idle and see what you get. Should be somewhere around 17-22 in/hg.

 

Just Out Of Curiosity.what Book Did You Use And How Exactly Did You Line Up The Chains And Gears.?let Me Know I Recently Had This Issue After Replacing The Heads.

 

i used the haynes manual, and lined the marks on the cam and crank gears up with the corresponding links on the new chain. the idle was rough enough that i took it back apart to make sure i hadn't slip a tooth while putting on the tensioner, i rechecked everything a second time and reassembled the front of the motor. the problem hasn't thrown a code or anything, the only improvement i have noticed was after i changed the fuel filter, it ran alittle smoother for a short time. the truck has no power, and seems to only be running on the 4 driverside cylinders. is yours still running rough or did you get it fixed?