I have purchased a 2000 v Felicia 1.3 mpi off E Bay that required a new head gasket , which i have done , but on driving it seems to have a hesitation ( holds back ) maimly between 2 & 3000 revs and you can slightly feel it under hard acceleration . When driving normally below or above this range it drives perfectly . There are 2 problems that i know of , firstly the thermostat housing has the usual problem in that the tabs have broken inside so it does'nt fully heat up . I part covered the rad to get it up to running temp but the hesitation is still there .

Secondly the exhaust rattles loudly around the centre box area , sounds like the baffles are loose and the rear box has a slight blow on a seam .

Could it be the exhaust has a restriction causing the hesitation as it can't get rid of the gasses ? .

Any advice appreciated

Cheers

Steve

I've just replied to another Felicia thread asking for advice about sluggish performance, and I'm gonna give you the same advise! Sounds to me like the catalyst has broken up and blocking the exhaust.

I have a spare cat off a Favorit which should fit . I am curious though , would it have passed its MOT if it was the cat breaking up ? . It was MOT'd a couple of weeks ago . It also seems a little heavy on fuel .

Anyone recommend a cheap exhaust supplier .