Sounds like a vacuum leak. Check all the hoses, and anything else that can leak air after the maf or throttle body.

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And yes i have to agree with others, it does sound like a vac leak. Just can't suggest what to check.

OK! Here's what happened. I tried that oil in the spark plug hole trick. I poured about a capful in each cylinder. I cycled the key about 5-6 times thinking maybe I needed to prime the fuel system. And VWOOM....purred like a kitten(and smoked like a demon. After about 5 minutes it sputtered and died. I about cracked!! I noticed the fuel was pretty low so I added about three gallons and tried again(cycling the key again). Started but immediately CAUTION LOW OIL light came on. Added a quart and a half of oil and VOILA!!! Running like a date raped ape!!! Thanks for all you guys' help and suggestions and hope this helps someone else!

Holy shit really? It's always something simple. I sort of presumed you changed your oil after doing the guides. No way could any of us had guessed this would be the problem. Wow.

I had changed the oil, but I think the 8 1/2 quarts doesnt take into account how bone dry it gets. Vanos, solenoids, filter housing etc. Now I just need to sell my timing kit so I can fix my passenger side mirror and door handle!

Possibly.

How much was the timing kit anyway? How do I check if it will work on the 4.8is? And how much do you want. I might buy it for my friends shop. I'll ask him.

I paid around $400 for it including S+H. I'd sell it for $275 and pay the freight anywhere in the continental US. I'm not sure about it working on your 4.8. I couldn't even find a listing for timing tools for that engine.

damn, that sux.