Possibly ISC, maybe more? Help me out please, ISC might be bad Options

[TSG59_Steve]

Symptoms: Car completely shuts down at idle/neutral (IAC/ISC?). Lights stay on and still have power to my CD player and interior lights etc. I don’t get power steering. Starts fairly easily but now is making a loud knocking-type noise, sounds like its coming from the head but I don’t keep it on long enough to make sure, it sends chills down my spine… Also there was a light smoke in the engine bay the last time I drove it. (I pulled over and towed it home)

I’ve checked all vacuum lines, spark plugs/wires, and in the process of checking the ISC. Would the ISC and harsh idle cause the knock/noise? I’ve read quite a few articles on this, but none of them mention anything about noises. The belts all look good, like new, as well.

Things to know: Last oil change <100 miles ago I added slick 50, I read on VFAQ that actually can clog oil lines (knock?). Just put in a brand new battery (Terminals clean and connected). I’m not venting my BOV, and my MAS is plugged in, however my BCS was not. Oil and Coolant levels are good. Was running 12psi.

Please share any and all info you can… I’m driving a Honda right now and would like to be back in my beloved DSM ASAP.

[90GSX]

I doubt a bad ISC would be that severe. When was the timing belt last done? A tensioner thats going bad can cause your timing to slip a few teeth before major damage is done.