Hi - I have an '88 Raider 2.6L that has been a project truck for me. The engine is not running quite right. There is some hesitation. Also the auto trans does not seem to be working quite right - maybe kickdown needs adjusting and doesn't want to go into 4th. I know I have to get the engine right before looking at the trans.

Thanks to some of your suggestions, I have worked on the carb - checked the vac hoses, replaced the secondary vacuum dashpot, checked the bowl vent and a number of other carb functions, replaced the distributor weights, springs, shaft etc.

I am just learning to work on autos, but I am not afraid to dig in. However, I would like some experience in checking out where I am at. I think I am at a point where a physical check-up is necessary.

Does anyone know of a mechanic in the Chicagoland area that works on this spaghetti engine, or is there any expert owner in the Chicagoland area willing to take a look at make some suggestions? Really would appreciate some help. Thanks.

I know a couple of places out by me in the Naperville/Aurora area that I trust. Where are you?

Arlington Heights. Nap/Aur a little far but would appreciate the contacts (in forum or PM). Will use if I don't get any closer suggestions. Thanks.

Hehe, small world - I grew up in Arlington Heights! I have family in the area. My Uncle is in Mount Prospect and pretty mechanically inclined. I could ask him for a ref for you?

Yes please - someone who is familiar with this truck. Also the Naperville addresses. Thanks alot.

If you're willing to travel all the way down here for an opinion, the shop I trust here is Fontana's in Warrenville (they're actually at the intersection of Warrenville Rd. and Batavia Rd.). It's difficult to get in to see them as they're a small shop - reliable and honest though. They do good work. Been a couple of years since they helped me out with anything though.

For transmissions and drivetrain, I go to Aamco of Aurora. Steve's the owner - nice guy. Tell whoever you talk to that the archaeologist who drives the truck with the snorkel sent ya <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Steve at Aamco also recommended Tuffy in Batavia. Haven't used them yet, but I'm going to employ them to hunt down an oil leak for me.

I'm still waiting to hear back from my uncle in Mt. Prospect...

Hey man, talked to my Uncle tonight - he's much like me as in he doesn't trust any mechanic to work on his cars anymore. Although, he said that lately he's just been taking his Buick to the dealer as he has less of an idea of what's under the hood than he did back when cars were cars (and not living rooms). Sorry, no refs. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

I've got a shop manual and some knowledge of motor operation if you want to meet up some time and try and solve the problem? Don't know what my situation will be right now, but I'll letcha know! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />