rough idle and sputtering in an 86 b2

[clay]

i have just recently got a bronco II its a 86 2.9 v-6 it idles rough and sputters when i give it gas and also smokes like a chimmny (i think that can have something to do with the timing not sure though) if there is any one out there who can help me to wht top dead center on the thing is and what i might also try feel free to im goin to change the sparks plugs and wires so thats under the hat. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Clem]

i have just recently got a bronco II its a 86 2.9 v-6 it idles rough and sputters when i give it gas and also smokes like a chimmny (i think that can have something to do with the timing not sure though) if there is any one out there who can help me to wht top dead center on the thing is and what i might also try feel free to im goin to change the sparks plugs and wires so thats under the hat. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!

SMOKES LIKE A CHIMNEY. This is not good. You need to find out why it is smoking before you spend $$ on fixing the other problems.

Does the smoke have a sweetish smell to it? and is it blue?

Check the radiator for the coolant level. If it is low, don't refill it at this time.

Pull all of the spark plugs and keep them in order of removal, look for one or two that are a different color on the tip that is into the engine, also check them for moisture.

My guess is a blown head gasket, with the spark plugs still out, do a compression test.

Write down the results of the compression test and let us know what you find.

Ray