Why would a 1988 Oldsmobile Delta 88 not accelerate when you press on the gas?

Answer 1

possible answerFirst things first is your (check engine light) on? If it is you need to check the codes first. Just take a paper clip or peice of wire and beneath the steering column you'll find a plug jump the far right sockets. this should start making the check engine light flash. Count the flashes it will be a two digit number. More than likely you will get three codes 22, 34 and 44. code #22 means your throttle position sensor/or low voltage to before said sensor (this is located under the carburetor which means you have to lift the carburetor up to get to it. Code #34 means low vacume, differential pressure sensor it could be the sensor or you have a leak in your vacume lines. code#44 this is your o2 sensor or "lean exaust indicator" this should be located on the exaust somewhere proabably close to the engine on the passenger side.

That being said.

It could just be a accelerator pump which like the throttle position senso is located under the carb.

IT COULD BE THE CATELETIC CONVERTER I WOULD HAVE IT CHECKED FIRST MOST SHOPS WILL CHECK FOR FREE.

I believe this car has the fuel injected 3.8L, in which case it could also be a plugged air filter or a fuel delivery problem (fuel pump). Does the engine idle and if so is it smooth ?.