My 87 (302 EFI) started to just kill for no reason off and on, say once a month, usually at a complete stop. Would startup and run just fine after that until next month. Two weeks ago It started on a regular basis. 2 or 3 times in a 10 mile trip sometimes. Lately it will not start for some time after it stops. I have also had the rpm's drop to 0 sometimes while moving but no engine light then it would get up and go, other times if it does kill while moving I can restart it in N. It is hit and miss. I ran it in the driveway off and on for 2 hours this weekend and nothing. Going to work today it stopped 3 different times. When it would not start I got out and quickly ran the fp test and both were running. I was unable to test for spark because it started shortly after that.

Where do I go from here?????

I have changed out the fuel filter

Checked and wiggled all wiring, cleaned and remounted the neg battery terminal and assorted wires connecting it.. (already saw that post)

Changed out the fp rely


Pulled the codes, I get code 14. I have checked the PIP and PCM voltage and both are normal.

It has shorty headers but the temp outside is 40 degrees so I rule out vapor lock. Althrough it will do it AFTER reaching operating temp.

Could it be a clogged fp screen in the tank? I do have a new fp and screen ready to go or should I go with looking at the ignition for the problem??


I absolutly HATE getting into the "replace parts until it works" mode.

anyway thanks for letting me rant

 

My 86 had a similar problem. Never showed a code for it but it turned out to be the EEC relay that provides power to the on board computer. Drove me nuts. Since I replaced that relay, no more problems.

 

Thanks Norm, I tried the relay from Autozone tonight but the truck would not even start with the new switch. It's off to the dealership tomorrow for the real deal.

 

Let us know what it turns out to be.

 

You have a bad dizzy. I just had the same code 14 and I had a bad dizzy which I had just bought from autozone so they had to give me another one. I think it's called the stator or pick up that goes bad inside the dizzy.

 

no luck with the FoMoCo EEc relay. Within 15 min of running it in the driveway it started to fade. It stopped and would not start so I jumped out and pulled the coil wire to test for spark and sure enough it was sparking. Then it started right up. I think I will explore the gas tank tomorrow.

 

btw RTM what is a "dizzy"??

 

Distributor? LOL.... and would it be just the cap or the whole thing?

Thanks

 

It's the whole thing. A bad cap would only cause it to run rough, not die. Code 14 is the PIP signal from the dizzy to the computer. If the computer is not getting this signal it doesn't know the dizzy is turning.

The roll pin for the dizzy gear could have failed or even a broken wire but more than likely a new dizzy should solve your problem.

My truck was doing the exact same thing as yours. If you didn't get a code 14 then I would look at the fuel system. I know you checked the PIP signal and found it was good but you also have a problem that comes and goes so when you checked it, it was in the good state. Like I said, mine did the same thing but it got to where it was taking longer to restart after it died.

 

I took your advice last night and got a new dizzy and all assorted goodies. I am finishing up the job right now. You're right it is progressively getting harder and harder to start. Thanks RTM

btw what do you drive?

 

I hope it all works out for you. good luck and keep me posted.

 

RTM THANKS a million. Two days now and no sign of the problem. (knock on wood)

I won't soon forget this one. This was my first experience with the TFI IV type. My last Bronco was a 1980 (MUCH easier to troubleshoot) which I sold in 95 so it has been a number of years.


THANKS ONCE AGAIN

 

I am glad you got it fixed. I know what you mean knocking on wood. It's very cold out here and I am just starting to trust my truck again after my dizzy died on me. bob