loss of power

[86wagon]

i get knocking and a noticable loss of power....83,000 milesreplaced valve cover........timing? valve adjustment?

[IowaEagle]

Sounds like timing.   Easy to check at least to rule it out.  Are you getting any tapping noises at lower rpm?  That usually indicates a sloppy timing chain.  The original timing chains tend to start doing this at about the mileage your engine has.

[Jurjen]

Is it shifting up OK?
Or does it feel like it is in Drive all time.
Is the kickdown rod still in place?

[86wagon]

i'll check timing........shift rod is there the carb was replaced with a webber so the linkage is off having alot of shifting issues fluid seems ok my pan needs to be replaced so i'm waiting to find a new tranny pan then i'm going to attemp band adjustment, shift rod gromet replacement fluid and pan seal.  as far as the engine should i look to adjust rockers?  thx

[Eagleearl]

Rockers are not adjustable. The kickdown rod needs to be hooked up or you will wreck the transmission.
If the timing chain has not been replaced yet it is time for it.

[JayRamb]

Also, look into tightening/snugging up...not too much torque, you will notice a huge difference.