i had it scanned  came back knock sensor and low fuel pressure. replaced knock sensor and fuel pump light went off but symptoms still there. it will idle fine for sometimes 1/2 hour then start to stumble. a little hesitant when i hit the throttle. maf sensor? will it throw a code because im not getting a light. i just bought this car and i hate to think it is a major . it ran fine on a 7 mile test drive. i haven't  done any tuning yet. last week while it was running i tapped on the maf sensor and the car died, i unplugged it and the car died. i did clean the motor and now it seems to run worse. while under the car it looked like i may of had an exhaust leak between the exhaust manifold and motor but i wasnt sure if it was just residue from the motor cleaner. or mabe the cat is backed up. i just dont know! 

If it ran worse after cleaning the motor, you probably fried the plug wires by getting moisture in there. See if your hesitation goes away with a new set. Get subaru or NGK.

 

The MAF or fuel pump are other possibilities. I had similar issues on my impreza before replacing the MAF

If you tapped the MAF sensor and it died there is a loose connection at or inside the sensor. MAF sensor failure on the 95-96 models seems fairly common. Junkyard replacements are usually fine and cost less than $50 for the most part.

 

Exhaust leaks at the manifold can cause problems. If you have any doubt, just get new gaskets and replace them. Be sure to clean the mating surfaces on the heads and the manifold really well.

thanks for your reply, i will do that today and post the results