Ignition or fuel system problem? | FerrariChat

Ignition or fuel system problem?

Discussion in '308/328' started by J Ingram, Aug 2, 2008.

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  1. J Ingram

    J Ingram Formula Junior

    Aug 12, 2006
    459
    Moreno Valley, CA
    Full Name:
    Jesse Ingram
    I have a '78 308 GTS USA version with the points ignition system, twin coil and twin distributor set up. It has been running perfectly until returning from a normal drive last night when it suddenly developed a mild loss of power, and the engine sounded like it wanted to stall. I started it this morning and it took a bit more effort to start and it sounded different than it's usual low burble. There was a strong odor of raw gas in the air which has never happened. As I tried to back out of the garage, the engine lost power and felt as if it would stall. I has had a major service about 2 or 3 months ago, so everything is up to date. It starts easily but runs a little rougher than usual. So, could it be a problem with ignition or something with the carbs? Thanks for the help.
     
  2. snj5

    snj5 F1 World Champ

    Feb 22, 2003
    10,213
    San Antonio
    Full Name:
    Russ Turner
    While you need to look at several things, what comes to mind:

    1. You lost (or are losing) ignition on one side: check that each distributor coil wire is delivering spark. Check caps and rotors, points gap, etc.

    2. Ensure you do not have a fuel leak at the carbs (or anywhere else) - remove the air cleaner and look at the carbs/hoses with the fuel pump running. Carbs do not typically fail en masse.

    My bet: bad coil or distributor or coil/plug wires arcing out (look for burn thoughs at cap, wires and extenders)

    Good luck!
    rt
     
  3. Steve King

    Steve King F1 Rookie

    Feb 15, 2001
    4,367
    NY
    I would also put a dwell meter on it and see what the point dwell looks like. Also check spark at each plug. Take a look at each plug also to see how they look. Also with the engine off pull the top cover of the air filter and look down each carb to see if it is wet.
     
  4. J Ingram

    J Ingram Formula Junior

    Aug 12, 2006
    459
    Moreno Valley, CA
    Full Name:
    Jesse Ingram
    Thanks alot guys! I'll check those things and let you know.
     
  5. J Ingram

    J Ingram Formula Junior

    Aug 12, 2006
    459
    Moreno Valley, CA
    Full Name:
    Jesse Ingram
    Took off the top of the air cleaner and looked down each carb and they all were dry with the fuel pump running. I couldn't see an obvious fuel leak from any of the hoses or carbs and didn't smell gas but I didn't try to start it or pump the acccelerator pedal. I removed the rubber boots from each coil and each distributor and all wires are clean and intact and I didn't see any signs of burn-through or arcing. I don't have the tools or instruments to test the ignition system , so I'm gonna have to take it to the shop and watch what he does so I'll know what to do and which tools to buy for the next time. Thanks anyway everyone and I'll let you all know what the problem was when it's fixed.
     

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