Recently drove car (1991 Mustang GT convertible) approx. 900 miles from FL to VA - no problems noted, except instrument cluster lights went out along the way - checked fuses, all look OK.

Was driving locally for about 15-20min in traffic and stopped at a traffic light; car all of a sudden dies - no warning signs at all. Car will now crank, but not start. Had car towed home.

Replaced fuel relay under drivers seat; easy and cheap replacement, but no change in starting status.
Can hear fuel pump when trying to start.
Did spark test and get spark at plug.
Even though getting a spark, replaced ignition control module; no change in starting status. Now, I removed the distributor to change out the control module, but didn't reset the timing -- assumed it would automatically recalibrate -- is this true?

Any assistance in solving this starting problem would be greatly appreciated . . .

Ken

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have you replaced the ignition switch in the steering column

 

No, didn't think it would cause the car to stop running while idling at a traffic light . . .

Ken

 

does it seem like it is close to firing or does it just spin without any sputters at all?

 

Make sure you have enough fuel going to rail.....

Replace fuel filter.......if you hear the fuel pump humming, maybe because of back pressure from clogged fuel pump. Or the pump is working but not sending enough fuel.

My '86 Capri 5.0/5sp manual did the same once, I had to replace the TFI module twice(ignition module)

Good luck,

 

I had the same thing happen to me twice the first time it would start then after 40 minutes it finally started.Then it did it again and that time I had the spare parts with me to fix it once I swapped the distributor and got the timing as close as I could it started up no problem and still no problems.

 

check to see if fuel at rails.....then check fire at plug wire

 

Cranks strong, but no evidence (sputter, almost catching, etc) it will start.

 

What is best way to check for fuel at rails?

Thanks,
Ken

 

removing the distributor to replace the ignition module? (see original post for full details)

If so, is a timing light needed or is there another method?

Thanks,
Ken