Starting issue 72 Newport 440

[scorp]

Had the car at work today and started it and moved it a couple times during the day. Later in the day I went to move the car and it would not start and stay running. If I keep cranking the engine over and give it throttle, it runs but as soon as I stop cranking it over it then runs for a second and dies.

Checked the mechanical fuel pump(no electric one installed) and it was good. There is fuel going right to the carb so it led me to believe that I may have a carb issue. The carb is a Edelbrock 1411.

Upon thinking about this after having the car towed from work and forking out $107 for the tow bill, I got thinking that it sounds more like an ignition issue since it will run while it is cranking and not stay running when in the "run" position. I will be checking the ignition switch this weekend and see if that is the issue but I just wanted to see if anyone else has any input of what else to check.

Thanks ahead of time everyone.

 

[1978 NYB]

Could be the coil. Check and see if you're getting spark.

 

[Bryan]

Classic failed Ballast resistor symptoms. If the car only stays running when the starter is engaged, I would replace that first. Always carry a spare in the car because they don't normally give any warning and it's a $10, three minute fix.

 

[440Sled]

Agreed...ballast resistor.

 

[scorp]

Thanks for the quick responses. I will pick one up tomorrow after work and try it. This is why I always hunt down car forums for the cars I own.

 

[scorp]

Well it actually wasn't the ballast resistor but I replaced it anyways. It is actually the ignition switch so I made a temp jumper fuse to start the car.

 

[70NPORT]

Hard to diagnose these things not being there and all. Probably not a bad idea to replace or at least have a spare BR on hand. I keep one in the glove compartment. You are F'd royally if its damaged and you don't have an extra one on hand.

 

[1978 NYB]

Hard to diagnose these things not being there and all. Probably not a bad idea to replace or at least have a spare BR on hand. I keep one in the glove compartment. You are F'd royally if its damaged and you don't have an extra one on hand.

Same situation with arise with the coil....