302 engine shuts off at intersection

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Sep 28, 2015 | 04:07 PM

papabills54

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From: Las Vegas, Nevada

302 engine shuts off at intersection

what do I need to look at for this problem? I have a 54 Ford pick up with a 302 and T-5 5 speed. and just recently when I come to a stop the engine will shut off. It starts back up again but don't know where to look for this problem. My tack shows about 650 at idle and it doesn't do it all the time. I have an electric fuel pump and a ford electronic distributor. I would think if either were a problem it would do it all the time. ??? any help would be appreciated

bill

Sep 28, 2015 | 04:13 PM

ALBUQ F-1

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From: NM

High fuel level in the carb sloshing? or too low and it starves the jets?

Sep 28, 2015 | 04:29 PM

carnut122

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From: Waleska, GA

Try setting it at a higher idle speed?

Sep 28, 2015 | 04:45 PM

Fomoko1

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From: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Does the idle speed fluctuate? If so then it may be a vacuum leak.

Sep 28, 2015 | 07:37 PM

papabills54

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From: Las Vegas, Nevada

Ok, I'll check for vacuum leaks and set up the idle to 750. It does appear to be fluctuation a little so maybe. thank you.

Sep 28, 2015 | 08:43 PM

ZOOT

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From: Sterling, Virginia

What happens when you hit the gas when it's dying ? Might answer some carb questions. Don't think it's the pump or it wouldn't start right up again. What did you get the engine and trans out of ?

Sep 29, 2015 | 10:02 AM

Flat Ernie

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From: FL

The other thing that happens when you pull up at a stop is your alternator drops below cut-in voltage. This can cause a problem if you have a coil that is on its way out or, as I had, a pickup reluctor in the distributor. However, these often won't start back up as they're generally also heat-related failures with partial internal shorts that manifest only with heat AND the drop in voltage.

I'd check vacuum leaks and fuel first. A slightly higher idle wouldn't hurt - be sure to check idle with the largest electrical load you will likely have (lights, AC, etc) all on. I like the idle for manual transmission cars to be 700-750 and automatic 650-700 in drive and brake held.