i have a 79 f-150 4x4 w/400 in it...... having problems...1st it will start one time and not the next.... then while trying to start it back fires a lil bit...then the next time it starts fine...it turns over every time it just doesnt fire....i checked for spark and it has spark right as soon as u turn the key and when u let go...i checked the coil, and module...wasnt sure if they were bad so i put in the mod first....didnt help....put in a coil ....didnt help...after i was told that both of them were the problem...then i found someone else to help look at it and they said the magnetic pickup in the distributor was the problem....so i went and bought one and asked what to do to put it in....they said to take the bottom gear off the distributor....and another little ring....and then push the rod up and everything then it will come out by taking out a screw and a lock ring.....tried that didnt work ended up taking the gear off the top in the distributor and got it put back together........got the distributor put back in the truck and after a little bit of adjusting the position i got it to run but now it doesnt seem to have quite the right feel to it when i step on the gas...no back fire or hesitation but just a wierd vibration when i step on the gas and get up to about 50mph....probably something to do w/the timing...any ideas anyone ....if it is the timing how do i go about checking and adjusting all of that .....i have access to all the tools i could ever need just not sure how to do this part....im not too good at motor stuff but if i take it aprart and stuff i can usually put it back together and everything i just have to know what to do....

 

I e-mailed you some info if you need more just email me back and I'll call you but it's 11:00pm here so let me know if you need a hand.

 

Randy, No need for quote on 1st reply.

It's like repeating everything that was said..... before replying.


Also, ALL tech info should stay on the site and not be sent via e-mail.

This site is for discussion.

Jerrod,,

I believe you have engine to ignition timing issue.
Possbly a stretched timing chaion and broken cam gear from being a hi-miler engine.
You need to do a gear to chain slop test.

Re-check all the mechanical settings and make the proper adjustments and get back with results.

Also, Please put the TOPIC in the title.
It helps us know what the actual thread is about and allows other to find it in easier when searching.

"Need a lil help" means nothing ...as we are already here to help..that's what we do.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ease-read.html

 

It sounds to me you may have put your spark plug wires on in the wrong order. Might be only two wires, but that would be enough for a heck of a vibration. Next, check your timing. You may have already received an email from Randy on how to check timing with a light. I usually do mine by ear if I don't have a light handy. Advance as much as possible without getting ping when you accelerate hard. You should not get run-on when you shut the engine off too. These are telltale signs of improper timing.
Check all of your spark plugs and clean/regap where necessary. Also, check the condition of your plug wires and look for a possible short.
I have 540,000 kms on my '78 351M with original timing chain. My slight stretch of the old original chain only shows up when accelerating on a freeway merge lane, as a slight ping. Runs normal otherwise. Cap and rotor should be checked too. These are your basics; please post back.