Running slow up hills, thick black exhaust
 

inexperienced (but learning!) Liberty CRD owner here, would really appreciate some advice...

The problem: when I go up a hill, I lose a lot of power and have to creep along at 20-30 mph on the highway. When this happens a lot of thick black exhaust is coming out of the tailpipe. I am also hearing a new "whirring" sound, that kinda sounds like an electrical motor...not sure if that is related to the main issue.

A little history: I bought the Liberty about 8 months ago knowing the EGR valve was not functioning. I saw online that this was a common issue and not really problematic, so I have not fixed it yet. The check engine light has been on the whole time as a result.

This problem first began on a trip I made to the Oregon coast where you can drive 4WD vehicles on the beach. I was driving down the beach no problem but to get off the beach I had to go up a hill through some heavy loose sand. I didn't make it very far before the thick black exhaust came pouring out. I then found an easier exit and got off the beach but got stuck in deep sand at one point and a dune buggy with a winch pulled me out. Ever since that I have experiened the problem and have not been driving much as a result. (side note: I pulled my travel trailer across the country with this Liberty and a couple times experienced similar symptoms when going up steep hills but it was never this bad and always had plenty of power)

Please tell me what you think and advise me on how to troubleshoot this problem in a cost effective way. I really appreciate the help. THANKS!

Hello. I've had my CD-R for 100,00 miles now from when I bought it at 30,000 miles and sorry but not if but when you have to get the intake and exhaust lifters , valves rockers done on (mine never 3 and 4 piston) because of the egr. It's the way it is sorry. After you get it done get a flash from green diesel and it makes it into a old style diesel mainly talk to him it's the best 700$ you'll spend. Then get ready to fix the tranny the transfer case and jack shaft. Now my front dif is going. I love it but cost me more in parts than I paid for it. Now also getting 39 mpg from 27. Good luck in finding a mechanic that will do a top end rebuild because 99% dealers won't touch it. If your by Windsor Canada. Windsor gas and diesel will do it for a great price. They get them from 800 miles away to work on them from the dealers. Sorry