Lack of power (can't accelerate in third gear)

[Lauren Child]

Thanks for your help guys.

I'll take a look at the parking brake - it was my first thought in case its been stood for too long and got a bit stuck. I'll add some chocks to my shopping list.

What's involved in the advance mechanism? She's got an electronic ignition fitted by a previous owner, which should hopefully make a difference, but I've had *no* experience of ignition systems so that'll be something to learn.

[Phil Waterman]

Hi Lauren

You mention that the truck had been sitting for a while, with my trucks here in the States and what they have done to the gas, I would stay the gas had gone flat or picked up nearly a full load of water that the ethanol has absorbed. Gas has gotten so problematic that I don't even start to look for causes of poor performance without getting a fresh tank of gas.

Do let us know what you find so we add the diagnostic tip to our lists.


Cheers Phil

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Originally Posted by Lauren Child

What's involved in the advance mechanism? She's got an electronic ignition fitted by a previous owner, which should hopefully make a difference, but I've had *no* experience of ignition systems so that'll be something to learn.

I'm no expert either, but there is a mechanism which advances the ignition spark as the engine speed increases. If the mechanism does not work, the spark is not advanced resulting in a sluggish engine.
The electronic ignition cannot wander off like a mechanical one can, so it's probably not the cause of your problems - unless it's defective.

What happened / changed since it last ran fine?

H.

[Comox Air Force Museum]

Buy any chance did you put resister plugs in the engine. With a 6 volt ignition and resistor plugs, there's not enough fire left at the sparky end to do the job. How do I know, we just went through this same problem with our truck. Put solid core plugs back in it and all was well again!
Rob

[Lauren Child]

Thanks guys, I'll take a look.

[motto (RIP)]

Installation of an electronic ignition kit will not alter the function of the centrifugal advance. The weights still cause the cam to move slightly clockwise in relation to the main shaft as revs increase. The only difference is the cam carries magnets instead of opening and closing points.

A timing light will tell you immediately if you have a problem with the advance.

David

Whoa! I just noticed that the vehicle in question is a Ford. All bets are off. Chevrolet, the only way to go!