Runs fine, and then just dies

PKRWUD · 04-17-2002, 05:09 PM

Excellent suggestions. It's been my experience, though, that when the TFI get's moody, it tends to either work or not work, not die out sputtering. A typical bad TFI scenario is driving around for a while, and stopping to get gas, but when you try to start it to leave, it won't start. Once it cools down (usually 10-15 minutes), it will usually start again, but the next time you shut it off, you will likely experience the same problem.

The other possibility is the fuel pump. When they start to fail, they will often work fine initially, but as they heat up, they cut out and fail. They also will usually start working again after some time is allowed for it to cool, but the problem will become progressively worse.

The easiest way to determine if it's an ignition problem or a fuel problem is to check for spark the next time the problem happens. If you see a spark, try starting it again. If it still won't start (or if it does start, then the next time this happens), pull a plug and see if it's wet. Anytime you attempt to start it, and it won't, the plugs should be wet if the pump is working. If they are dry, I would replace the pump.

Take care,
-Chris

04-17-2002, 05:09 PM	#5
PKRWUD Junior Member Join Date: Mar 1999 Location: Ventura, California Posts: 8,981	Excellent suggestions. It's been my experience, though, that when the TFI get's moody, it tends to either work or not work, not die out sputtering. A typical bad TFI scenario is driving around for a while, and stopping to get gas, but when you try to start it to leave, it won't start. Once it cools down (usually 10-15 minutes), it will usually start again, but the next time you shut it off, you will likely experience the same problem. The other possibility is the fuel pump. When they start to fail, they will often work fine initially, but as they heat up, they cut out and fail. They also will usually start working again after some time is allowed for it to cool, but the problem will become progressively worse. The easiest way to determine if it's an ignition problem or a fuel problem is to check for spark the next time the problem happens. If you see a spark, try starting it again. If it still won't start (or if it does start, then the next time this happens), pull a plug and see if it's wet. Anytime you attempt to start it, and it won't, the plugs should be wet if the pump is working. If they are dry, I would replace the pump. Take care, -Chris __________________ Webmaster: Rice Haters Club Jim Porter Racing Peckerwoods Pit Stop Support Your Local RED & WHITE!