An engine may backfire at high idle due to a variety of factors, including an incorrect air-fuel mixture, which can result from a malfunctioning fuel injector or clogged fuel filter. Additionally, ignition timing issues, such as a faulty spark plug or ignition coil, can cause unburned fuel to ignite in the exhaust system. Vacuum leaks and exhaust system blockages can also contribute to this problem. Addressing these issues typically requires a thorough inspection of the fuel and ignition systems.
Out of time.
The cause of high engine idle and surges in the 1989 Corvette is due to..Read More
That usually means it's lean. Check all vacuum lines and gaskets for leaks.
Check throttle positioning sensor.
The inlet manifold is leaking air, weakening the mixture, OR the engine timing/sparkplug electrode gap is outside specified limits.
engine idle set too high or the timing is off and needs reset.
Engine idle too high.
low idle and uneven idle
Vacuum leek
High idle, misfire, check engine light,High idle, misfire, check engine light,
Added info to question: Vacuum also coincidently went from steady 20psi to 15psi/knock - small backfire/miss on acceleration from idle. Knock is steady at idle.
There are several things that can cause high idle. An older carbureted engine may have a vacuum leak or sticking choke linkage. Newer computer controlled engines have an idle control device called an idle motor which could be faulty or receiving bad information from other sensors on the engine ( IE. temperature sensor ).