so i think the front diff is going out. it makes some real bad griding noises and it leaks fluid. any ideas? checked cv axles and they are fine. it also dosnt run very good. i changed the fuel filter, air filter is good. cleaned the maf sensor, re routed the breathers so my intake isnt sucking oil, ran seafoam through it, checked the o2 sensor, and put new plugs in. the engine light comes on after driving for just a little bit. and also, i pulled my new plugs out after driving it maybe 10 miles, and the plugs are solid white. whats going on here?

white plugs would indicate a lean burn. Maybe you have a vacuum leak? Maybe the iac is open because the engine temp sensor is bad(or coolant temp sensor, CTS)

 

turbo? 4eat? 3at? 5mt?

i know its got a lean burn, but i dont know why it would. where does the coolant temp needle usualy sit while running? (wish they actually had numbered gauge) mine is like 1/4th inch above cold. and where is the engine temp sensor? and no its just the base 1.8 liter model, naturally aspirated.

I would imagine an spfi for 'base model, or a 1986 gl-10, but the 'base model' would be the DL trim line, as the gl-1o is the luxury trim.

 

If you got an spfi motor, the engine temp sensor is on the thermostat housing, the one with 2 wires and a green plug. If its mpfi turbo, or mpfi n/a the tsensor is located at the back of the intle on the left side near the turbo

so, an update on that. took it for a little drive, and it just died on me and it tried to start for 2 or 3 cranks than just wouldnt start anymore.

classic CTS problem. Car runs great until it warms up, then stalls, and wont start till it cools down. I recommend you replace this part first before throwing any more parts or money at it. Also, check for corrosion on the terminal.

 

This sensor is brown with the same style connector as the injectors. If you take off the '4wd turbo' plenum, you should see it nestled between the intake and the turbo. Replace that hose that goes from the turbo to the thermostat as well, since it is likely to blow out one day if it has never been changed