Intermittent starting issues

[bossbob]

Thanks for all the help, I just ordered a complete distributor. I'll have it later in the week and will let you know the results.

Thanks again,

 

[bossbob]

I put the new distributor in, got it running, but it has no power. Think I'm probably off a tooth.

I'll address that tomorrow. but need to know how to set the timing on it. The Chilton doesn't really specify the timing, I think it's supposed to be at 6 degrees.

Can someone confirm the timing setting and any how to's on it.

I also bought the multi-function switch which I will install hopefully this weekend to correct the lighting issues.

Thanks,

 

[bobbywalter]

pull the spout.

10 btdc is base.

 

[bossbob]

Tell me more about the "spout"

 

[bossbob]

I took the truck in to get looked at, at this point the fuel and ignition is set up correctly, but still has no power past 35 mph. Mechanic says it's loosing compression due to the valves sticking in the valve guides and say's it's common for this engine.

Can someone confirm if this is common or not. I would think a valve job would correct it with new guides and such, but the mechanic is suggesting new heads if possible.

I trust the guy, but can't see why rebuilt heads won't do the job.

 

[RonD]

Never heard of valves hanging up on the guides on 2.9l.

If your SPOUT wire is disconnected you would have no power accelerating or cruising.
SPOUT is the TFI electronic ignition's Vacuum Advance

Just like on regular points distributor you had to disconnect the Vacuum Advance to set base spark timing, same for TFI, you have to disconnect SPOUT wire.
So Ford has a SPOUT Connector that can be pulled out which disconnects the SPOUT wire.
On 2.9l it should be near distributor, on its wiring harness passenger side of lower intake

Picture here, 1988 2.9l: https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gallery/tmp/483/48304.520.390

Another, F250: https://f01.justanswer.com/Eclayton4/0ef1481b-8a4e-45af-bfda-5f3833c18457_SPOUT.jpg

Its just a connector that can be pulled apart to set Base Spark Timing, then put back in to get SPOUT/Vacuum Advance working again

 

[Paulos]

If you have valves sticking or bad compression on a cylinder, the needle on a vacuum gauge will be erratic when testing. Mine does this, and I don't know yet if it's worn cam lobes, sticking valves, or if I made a mistake adjusting the valves when I last changed the valve cover gaskets.

Mine likes to run rich all the time and tends to stutter on mild acceleration. clearing the computer helps it to run better for about a day.

 

[bossbob]

I guess he ran the OBD1 and got a code for the Throttle Position Sensor.

Would a bad TPS cause some of the issues I'm having?

 

[bossbob]

Verified that the SPOUT was pulled to set the timing. I got the truck home, it starts, and idles ok, try to give it throttle and it stumbles hard until you get enough RPM like 3-4k rpm and that's when it starts to sound good.

It's not driveable in it's current state.

What should I try or test next.

 

[dirtymike]

compression

 

[Paulos]

If it is due to sticky valves, you may want to check out the video in the sticky at the beginning of the 2.9 forum (if you haven't done so already). I may try this myself.

 

[bossbob]

Nice video, beats pulling the heads off. Guess I'll try it and see what happens.