Look I'm not there I cannot do anything except process the information given and type back a semi intelligent answer based upon my experiences. Given the fact it won't go over 40, I thought it just had a little trouble doing it, I would vote cat conv. also. Ive only had 1 go bad in my life and the car would not go above 40 mile per hour no matter what. These are great beasts, but as with any older car there will be many repairs, some to neglect from PO,some to pure age and some to current owner error. At least you have a lot of new parts you don't have to worry about and if you saved the old parts probrably a few good spares.

 

Cut the exhaust pipe. or disconnect it.
run in the driveway see if it does the same thing.
If so you spent nothing and can eliminate another potential cause.
If it works better, then maybe fan clutch and cat will do it.

 

best solution to finding out problem ,have you ever read the codes if theres any present

 

You might check the timing as well...that can cause an engine to run really hot!

 

thank you all for the help - lookin for the vendor(s) for the Cats and the fans -

Hope to get things going soon

 

I believe timing (ignition) is all done buy the ECU.