1978 F150 poor performance
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1978 F150 poor performance
My old truck just decided yesterday to start driving like crap! It stalls (mostly at stoplights, but also when simply driving down the road), and it cuts out when the accelerator is pushed. I'm assuming plugs, wires, distributor issue but the plugs and wires are brand new. It also has a new fuel filter. Fuel pump perhaps?
The auto choke on the carb is busted, and I've tried idling it higher but that only helps when in Park. When in gear, it runs very low and stalls. But while it is actually RUNNING, the motor sounds great and does not skip.
400ci, automatic, 4wd supercab, 1978.
I'm going to check these issues out when I get off work, but I'm wondering if those of you smarter than I have any bright ideas. Anything you have is appreciated!
The auto choke on the carb is busted, and I've tried idling it higher but that only helps when in Park. When in gear, it runs very low and stalls. But while it is actually RUNNING, the motor sounds great and does not skip.
400ci, automatic, 4wd supercab, 1978.
I'm going to check these issues out when I get off work, but I'm wondering if those of you smarter than I have any bright ideas. Anything you have is appreciated!
Laughing Gas
Joined: Oct 2015
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From: Dallas, OR
I think you are on the right track with fuel issues, but Carb issues is what comes to mind first to me. Float going bad or jet picked up a piece of crud and is partly blocked? Have you checked the vacuum line to the distributor? No advance might explain it too and easier than tearing into the carb.
Regular User
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From: Bathurst, New Brunswick
Check the accelerator pump on the carb. If the diaphragm is leaking that could cause at least some of the issues you are experiencing such as cutting out when the accelerator is pushed.
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Thanks for the reply. I have checked that vacuum line and it has plenty of suction. I think I may need to get into the carb... UGH.
Any thoughts on the ease of installing a new carb? Since the choke is already busted, the float is basically non-functional, etc... would it be better to just replace it?
Any thoughts on the ease of installing a new carb? Since the choke is already busted, the float is basically non-functional, etc... would it be better to just replace it?
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Okay thanks! Can you explain where the accelerator pump is at? I know next-to-nothing about carbs.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Oct 2015
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From: Dallas, OR
I'm a bad person to ask. I HATE working on carbs. Despite my obvious bias, I think the performance gain might be worth changing it for an aftermarket if you are still running factory. Far cheaper to rebuild though.
Last edited by wyrm73; Oct 26, 2015 at 10:35 AM. Reason: Missed a few words in there... must type slower...
Regular User
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From: Bathurst, New Brunswick
Front driver's side of carb. Four bolts to remove - be careful the spring doesn't get away when you remove the cover.
However, it sounds like you might be better off with a remanufactured carb - just replace the whole thing. But I am by no means an expert - listen to what the other guys here tell you.
Good luck.
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I have a stock Motorcraft 2150. The accel pump is #2 in this image: http://grantorinosport.org/BubbaF250...accpump_01.jpg
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Also - I've followed threads about vacuum diagrams (the lack thereof) and I'm also wondering if I have improperly connected vacuum hoses. I will try to get more edu-ma-cated
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Mar 2015
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From: Pittsburgh
If there was a big temperature change yesterday, which it is that time of year again, then your carb probably could use some tuning. But after reading some more of your problems, the other guys are right, except that I suggest rebuilding the 2150. There's no reason to buy a new one and if you've got a stock engine I don't see the benefit of "upgrading" to something that will require more parts and cost exponentially more money with little to no benefit. I just completed my first rebuild with little knowledge and its fairly easy.
I ordered the kit and a new brass float from Welcome to Mike's Carburetor Parts - Your Number 1 Carburetor Parts Store aka Mike's Carburetor. It came recommended from guys on here after some searching. It cost me about $70 after the new float and shipping, plus there are multiple 2150 kits and of course the one I needed was the most expensive. The first thing you'll need though is the carb's part# which can be really tough to find.
I ordered the kit and a new brass float from Welcome to Mike's Carburetor Parts - Your Number 1 Carburetor Parts Store aka Mike's Carburetor. It came recommended from guys on here after some searching. It cost me about $70 after the new float and shipping, plus there are multiple 2150 kits and of course the one I needed was the most expensive. The first thing you'll need though is the carb's part# which can be really tough to find.
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