Why won't it run?

[Klingoncdr]

OK guys, get this one. I have a '88 model Firebird. It left the factory with a fuel injected 2.8 V6. The previous owners managed to blow up the V6 and replaced it with a 350 4BBL from a 76 Monte Carlo. It is still running on both fuel pumps, that is when it runs. As long as it's sitting and idling, it runs well. But if I get it out of the driveway, it will run about 3/4 of a mile then cough, spit, sputter, and die. If I let it sit about 10 minutes it will start again, go another 3/4 of a mile, then cough, spit, sputter, and die. I am in the process of taking out the electric fuel pump and replacing it with a sending unit for a carburetor. I would apreciate any other suggestions as to what I might do to fix this. Thanks.

TK

[Jaysz28]

try disabling the electric fuelpump by either pulling the fuse or relay while it is idling. If it keeps running, then take it for a spin and see what it does.

Hell, I am probably wrong and it is ignition related. Have your module tested too. Does it have the vacuum advanced disty? Hope so.

[Klingoncdr]

It does have a vacuum advance. The coil, cap, rotor, and distributor are all new. I was told the problem was from a bad pick-up coil, so I pulled the distributor and found the shaft housing was broken square in the middle.

[Jaysz28]

yup, I was wrong then :shrug: no surprise there

that was a quick fix tho.... LOL

[GeoffP]

I'm honestly surprised you aren't posting about the carb blowing gas out the top...the MPFI pump has probably blown out all the seals in the carb by now since that pump is designed to run as part of a recirculating fuel system at ~40psi. I'd definitely get that pump out of the tank and get the fuel system set correctly and then go from there... just remember not to try changing too many things at once as you're trouble shooting it or you could just end up shooting yourself in the foot and just cause yourself more problems...Tom and I know all about that, don't we Tom??

[WS6 VERT]

So the distributer fixed it? It sounds like the float bowls are running dry...

[Klingoncdr]

No, replacing the distributor diddn't help. If anything, it's worse. With the broken distributor, it would run 2-3 miles before dying. I got my sending unit today. I will most likely put it in this weekend.

If the float bowls are running dry, why? with the two fuel pumps it should have more than enough fuel flow to keep them full.