Hi there,
Could someone please tell me where to start trying to find the source of my problem. This truck runs perfectly for awhile (as much as ten miles or so) but then suddenly begins sputtering and wants to die. Sometimes I can keep it going but other times it needs to sit awhile then runs fine for a bit, then begins missing again.
Thanks!

 

My 89 5.0 did the exact same thing. It would run good but then its like once it warmed up it didn't want to run and would sputter and die. But let it cool down it would start right back up.

Mine turned out to be the distributor module on the distributor I believe its the tfi module. It was replaced and ran just fine. They are common to melting so I was told and cheap ones don't last long. So if you get one from autozone or advanced auto get a good brand not some duralast or bwd brand one

 

I agree with thumper. I had a similar problem in my 89 it was the pip in the distributor. A good quality distributor will more then likely correct your problem. Good luck

 

Thanks for the info and will try it. Do I need to remove the distributor to get the tfi off?

 

Yes I would suggest replacement of the complete distributor.

 

No. You can get the ignition module for $30. just loosen the distributor and turn it and you can get it out. However you have to have a special socket to get the bolts holding the module in out. I would do this before replacing the whole distributor.

For what you would have in a distributor and ignition module you can just get a HEI distributor with the coil, cap, and button.

 

Yes do as rebel says. You don't need a whole new distributor yet. Try a new tfi and when you rotat the distributor make sure you set it back to is correct timing

 

same crap happened to me, but i just boom, lost all power no sputter and die, It was my ICM

 

....will try turning distributor to get the module off and trying a replacement. What type of fasteners are holding the unit to the distributor (can't quite tell at first glance)? Also noted that heat is the problem here. Should I use dielectric grease between module and distributor?
Thanks to all.
Frank

 

Its a bolt. Like a 7/32's best I can remember, but it has to be a thin wall socket. Yes, use grease which should come with your new ICM. Also you will need to make sure your timing is correct because you are moving the distributor. So you need a timing light.

 

It's a pain in the ****. 5.5 mill socket that typically needs to be shaved a little bit . And deep wall yep. Distributor wrench helped me on my 302

 

...what next? By the way, you were right one bolt was a pain in the **** but I ground down a 7/32 socket until it squeezed in there. So its not the tfi ...where do I look next?
Thanks

 

I would change the distributor all the way out. It's expensive I know . But better then wasting time and guessing parts. My buddys bronco was the same way he could drive 15 minutes then it.would start.crapping out. Put in a donor distributor and wallah problem solved. You could try a junk yard. After ypir truck sputters and dies and you getti spark ? Or.maybe getting weak spark

 

....I started it after the new tfi it started great and idled better than recent memory (which was already pretty good). Truck drove smoothly for about a mile...then began missing slightly so I headed home. Yes, even after I come to a stop and it dies, it usually starts right up, just runs real ragged and won't idle long.
Thanks for any help.
Frank

 

Have you checked for codes yet?