Timing/Strange Idle

[Xithael]

Hey all, 

I’m having a strange problem with a fluctuating idle speed in my 1992 Subaru Loyale. When I turn it over, it runs and idles at 1900 RPM, then when it’s been running for a while, it starts to go down then kinda sputters out. I looked this up on google, but mostly what I got from it was “vacuum leak.” I also have to adjust the timing, so I was wondering if maybe that fixes it? I’m a very inexperienced mechanic, at least when it comes to real life. The engine is an EA82, and it’s a bit of a mix and match of two different engines. It’s single point fuel injection. If anyone has any ideas, please feel free to type away down in the replies. 

[moosens]

1900 is double the normal idle pretty much. So that firstly should be addressed. 
 

No CEL going off? 
 

Online manuals are likely found here:https://jdmfsm.info/Auto/Japan/Subaru/--Old Models--/

 

Been a while for me since I’ve had any EA82s but from memory there’s often issues with the CTS coolant temp sensor, or the IAC I think. Closed system for air that’s what google was alluding to. Check for leaks, yes. 
 

Adjust the timing how so? Just the distributor position? You have a timing light ? Should be cheap enough these days. Get a feel for that too although your car is kind of a “set it and forget it” type of deal. 
 

Going forward and not on subject here, be sure to get yourself some timing belts while you maybe can still find them. It’s the drivers side USA that’s the hardest to find since that’s the one that typically goes. 
 

Check for any wobble in your distributor too. Lift the cap and rotor too and grab the top and shake it left right front back. You will be ok with a slight up and down play but should be nothing side to side. 
 

Start there and I’m sure others who run those engines still will chime in. 
 

[SuspiciousPizza]

I'm curious about this engine it sounds like it's had some work done. If this rough idle began to occur after the work was done then it may be a timing issue. If this just started occuring out of the blue, then the first thing that comes to my mind is electrical/electromechanical. 

Checking the timing wouldn't hurt, cylinder #1 is the front passenger-side. Be sure to check your cam timing as well otherwise you're only diagnosing half of the timing. 

Check the diagnostic table in the FSM for rough idle symptoms. 

Don't go throwing parts at it, it may be tricky finding something you may not really need. Although it is a good idea to have spare parts.

:]