Thats whats next, I'm thinking it's a valvetrain problem.

 

I've got the EXACT same problem as you. Getting my valves adjusted today. I'll report back.

BTW, nobody ever answered you on removing the hoses the easy way. A little WD40 helps, but he trick is use a pair of pliers to twist, or rotate, the hose on the fitting. Then they'll pull off fairly easily. Tell me how it works for ya.

 

Valve adjustment and leakdown test. Check for cracked retainers while in there as well. There are plenty of walkthroughs on the forum for this. Good luck!

 

thanks guys. will update ya asap

 

Just had the valves adjusted.

PROBLEM SOLVED!

 

will start there. thanks!

 

Hey lap1, good news finally. at least someone's S2 is back to running tip-top, haha.

I read in another post as I was searching "no power, power loss". And billman suggests removing the 02 pre cat, tieing it off to prevent damage, then going for a drive. If the car runs better then that's evidence of a clogged car/exhaust system and if it makes no difference, you've ruled out one of the more likely causes. Just figured I'd mention that since it's a little easier than a valve job.

 

MR. T thanks a bunch! will let you know how i fare with that. If cat is fine then ill move on to valvetrain. pricing things out as we speak.

 

Have you done anything with the coils? Swap/etc? My car wasn't throwing any codes and it stumbled while idling and accelerating. I had about 100K miles at the time(last year). Replaced the coils and all is well since.

Definitely check the coils before doing more expensive replacing/repairs.

 

Skip the cat, valve adjustment is easy. Not to mention two or three people have told ya that a valve adjustment fixed the exact same problem you are having. This is a requirement at your mileage anyway. It needs to be done, no matter if it fixes your problem or not. There are guides on here to do it.