Random dying and backfire in 66 289

[MustangPaul]

Hi all--

Background: The GT has been randomly turning itself off. No coughing or sputtering--it just dies as if you turned off the key. Replaced the coil with a new flamethrower and checked the ignition switch (replaced a year ago with a new motorcraft switch) and all seems well. Took it to my mechanic to doublecheck as I need to have it roadworthy for Cruising the Coast in a week and I don't want to be stranded by the side of the road. It doesn't misbehave for my mechanic.

O-Ho, I think. I have solved the problem.

Wrong.

This morning, I fired it up and off I went to teach. Got out of the neighborhood, it backfires loudly and dies. I get it started, limp home, thankful I didn't need the fire extinguisher in the trunk and drive my trusty 93 toyota truck to work.

My thoughts: Tune up this weekend with new cap, wires, fuel filter and plugs. If it was a timing issue, wouldn't it run like crap all the time. When it isn't dying or backfiring, it runs like a top.

Your thoughts? I'm about to beat my head on the ground.

 

[10secgoal]

If it backfires right before it dies check fuel. It probably leaning out right before it dies and cries for help(POP). Look at dirty filter or pump going bad.
If it doesn't sputter it's usually ignition.

 

[MustangPaul]

Fuel issues

I replaced the filter the other day--forgot to add that--but I guess it could be the fuel pump giving up the ghost, too.

 

[10secgoal]

I replaced the filter the other day--forgot to add that--but I guess it could be the fuel pump giving up the ghost, too.

I have seen them act like that before they go out. Will be fine, then whamo. Guy brings a car in say it acts up everyoncein a while and I start to think fuel p[ump or whatever else. He parks it, I can't get it to start again. Fuel pump decided to get the guy here, and then that was it.

 

[JDS68Stang]

I just had a very similar problem, turned out to be my condenser of all things. Replace the points and condenser and I'll bet you'll run fine again.

 

[RUSTYNUT]

Check for loose ground wires or even just crusty mounting spots. I even had a brand new car that did the same thing. The dealer couldn't figure out the problem after several day long check outs. Turned it had a loose battery post. Started and ran fine till I hit bump just right and went instant dead.