Im new to the forum sorry if anyone finds that fact annoying...

I need help with my Z thats driving me a little nuts.

My Z has this sneeze that wont go away,

Ive replaced my distributor rotor, spark plugs, plug wires, adjusted my spark timing and replaced my air flow meter. Nothing seems to make a difference BUT all parts were messed up in one way or another.

Ive been following specs from a haynes manual (spark gap, timing):stupid:

After driving the engine smells like charcoal and burning plastic.

My Idle is usually high (1200-1300rpm) when i adjust the throttle screw to idle around 900 and turn off the car, the next time i start it it will be at approx 400. Also during driving I will get Fluctuations of 800 to 1300.

Im at a point where i just feel like throwing parts at it blindly because they all need to be replaced anyways hahah. Does anyone know if these 3 problems could be related? Any Ideas?

Current plan is to replace the horribly old looking Air Regulator, Throttle position sensor and all vacuum lines.

Check this small thread and see if any of it is consistant with your issue.

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38313

Thanks for your quick response. I have contemplated vacuum leaks as all the hoses look pretty f'd i didn't consider throttle linkage and will do some cleaning this weekend.

The reason for the new post is I am wondering if these problems could be related. The strong charcoal smell and Intake backfire are most likely related. Probly have 2 separate issues.

Thanks again for your time.