I have a 1990 Buick Regal Limited (3.1L FI w/ automatic) and she runs a bit rough at idle with a really strong gas smell coming from her tail pipe. Clears up at higher RPM and I'm at a loss on what it could be. The mechanics I've talked to tell me that the engines too old and the car needs to be scrapped. Minus some upholstery damage (shouldn't have got leather option), this car is cherry and was running like a top until recently. Anybody have any ideas? So far, the only suggestion that I've been given is to check the fuel pressure.

replace spark plugs and wires, fuel filter, do a compresion test on all cylinders, and if they are all still good compression. thats a good thing for the motor. dont scrap it

replace spark plugs and wires, fuel filter, do a compresion test on all cylinders, and if they are all still good compression. thats a good thing for the motor. dont scrap it

Yeah, that will be my next option after getting the fuel pressure readings from the schrader valve. If I lose pressure with the engine off, I have a fuel injector that is stuck open. If the pressure is within normal parameters, then I need to rotate the engine forward, check wires and plugs, and replace if necessary. If everything is good there and she still acts whacky, then I need to have the auto parts store check my coil packs and replace if necessary. If I missed a step in this elimination process, please correct me somebody.

90Buick,
I have an 88 with a 2.8L. When the plugs and wires wear on my car, the symptom is, a rough idle. A missing motor will smell rich. If your not burning oil, then your rings and valve seals are OK (no need to replace motor). How is the oil pressure?
Don't hesitate to replace plugs and wires. I have run out 50,000 on my 2.8L and have the third set of wires on now. I have never owned a vehicle that is so rough on plugs and wires.
Dave
My Way, is the Highway