ronjenx

All the time the engine is running, air is passing through the pcv valve into the intake. Removing the valve and blocking the hose won't eliminate it as a vacuum leak source.
Replacing the pcv valve with a new one would be the way to go, if you haven't done that already.
If you have replaced it, make sure it is completely seated in the adapter. If it isn't, the air may be bypassing the valve.
Now that may be seen as a vacuum leak.

wedgetail

I haven't yet, it is on my list next. So why wouldn't blocking the intake hose from the PCV rule it out as a vacuum leak? If it's leaking and you block it it won't be leaking?

ronjenx

Air is always "leaking" through it. It's a regulated leak. Block it off and you have no "leak" through it. That won't tell you anything.
The best you can do where the pcv valve is concerned is put in a new one, make sure it's seated in the rocker cover adapter, and make sure the hose from it to the intake is in good condition and secured on both ends.

MFX

possibly intake manifold gasket

wedgetail

so could a bad coil pack display these symptoms? As in clear up after 2000rpm and go bad when lugging?

TiredPete

I replaced the spark plugs, spark plug wires and coil pack on mine before I gave up and took it to the dealer. They replaced the PCM and that solved the problem. Luckily I was still under warranty.

wedgetail

Might try a vacuum gauge too. My warranty is long gone so really hope it's not the PCM...