If you recently had to use jumper cables you may have blown the 10amp fuse on the Overload Protection Relay. It should be behind the battery with a red coloured lid where the fuse will be. See if the fuse is blown and replace it. If it takes for ever to start and or wont start try this, it worked for me and only cost $1.
AnswerFuel pump? Did you check to make sure the pump is working. I'm not sure about the 1986 model, but you should be able to hear it near the gas tank when you turn the key, if you don't hear anything it's most likely the pump or the fuel pump relay. I'm assuming the 1986 has both of these.you might have to change the fuel filter as well that might be your problem or you have clogged injectors
Injectors are clogged
Check to see if fuel injectors clogged/ or fuel injectors getting power (requires special noid testor) . I take it you checked fuel pressure at fuel rail.
Empty tank Clogged filter bad pump
it will spit and sputter or miss or just not have no power at all very sluggish
It sounds as if the fuel filter is clogged and not getting enough fuel to the injectors.
The primary cause for jerking on a 99 Mercury Cougar is the engine not getting enough fuel. This can be a sign of a clogged fuel filter, bad fuel pump, or clogged fuel injectors.
Bad fuel pump, clogged or broken fuel lines, or if it is fuel injected it could be bad fuel injectors.
A clogged fuel filter, bad fuel pump or the fuel line is blocked/damaged. What about a fuel relay fuse?
If the starter is turning over on the 1989 Honda Civic but the engine is not getting gas, the problem is more likely the fuel pump than the injectors. Clogged injectors might cause difficult starts but a damaged fuel pump will cause the vehicle to receive no fuel at all.
Based on the information, I assume it is the fuel filter you changed, that you have good spark and have done a fuel pressure check. I doubt that ALL the injectors would be clogged. I would think the fuel pump is faulty.
have you tried looking to see if your your fuel filter is clogged.