My 56 just stopped running on the freeway

[zeke0815]

I have a 56 Ford-o-Matic with a 312 (I think). Was driving on the freeyway at some speed (2700 RPM) and the engine just stopped. I started it a few times and it would fire but within a few RPM's would stop. The oil pressure was normal (45-50 psi), the water temp was normal (160-170 deg F) and I could see gas in the filter bowl. After towing home I tried to start it and the same thing happened but on the second attempt it started ran normal from home to gas station to dinner and home?

John

 

[gbhrps]

zeke0815,

If I had to make a guess, I'd be checking your ignition points. Its quite common for the points to get corroded, or the gap to change with wear, and leave you stranded. Clean and regap your points and see where that gets you.

Obviously it could be many things.

Pull a spark plug wire, put its end close to the engine block and have someone crank the engine. If you don't get a spark, its bad plugs, points and condensor, bad ignition wiring, or engine and spark timing.

If they're all good, pull the air cleaner and pour a small amount of fuel down the carb and crank the engine. If it doesn't fire, you'll need a mechanic to dig deeper. Good Luck!

 

[GBird]

Run the engine in the garage, in the dark with the hood lifted and see if you can see any shorting. There may be a hairline crack in the distributor cap which will show up like a Christmas tree in the dark.
Another possible is a failing coil.

Rick

 

[paul2748]

Either a coil, condensor or points could be a problem, however I doubt the points because if they are bad enough to kill the engine I doubt it would restart.

 

[Jimz Bird]

So many little Gremlins that pop up and go away make it a really tuff call.
I'll take the fuel angle as others have covered the ignition.
Did it just come out of storage?
New or different gas?
Old Gas?
Just add anything to the gas?
There was gas in the filter but did you look in the carb to see if you got a fuel squirt when opening the throttle?
Sticky float?

Good fortune in your endeavors to sort it out.
Try to let us know what you find out.

Jim

 

[paul2748]

Another thing to look for is a wire inside the distributor that is grounding out. It may do it intermittenly

 

[zeke0815]

A broken wire at the top of the 1.5 ohm resistor was the problem.

John