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5.0 Dies Abruptly

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Old 09-06-2009, 07:02 PM
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StangMan5.0
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Default 5.0 Dies Abruptly

Hey guys on the freeway the other night my car made a 'clunk' then just shut off. It comes very close to turning over but kinda sputters then stops. I have inspected the engine and there are no leaks nor anything that looks to be out of place. I'm thinking it could be some sort of electrical issue with the spark plugs, the distributor or anything other old wiring that needs replacing. What could be my problem? Any response or thoughts are greatly appreciated!
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Old 09-06-2009, 08:19 PM
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mattdel
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mileage? stock timing chain?
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Old 09-06-2009, 08:40 PM
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92hatchLX
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does it have oil in it?
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Old 09-07-2009, 01:49 AM
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Yeah it has oil, just changed it very recently. Mileage is 158k and I'm not sure about the stock timing chain as Im the 3rd owner of the car...gotta check the records. Everyone I have talked to seems to think its an electrical issue. Opinions?
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Old 09-07-2009, 02:34 AM
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mattdel
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never heard of anything electrical making a clunk noise and killing a mechanical engine.
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Old 09-07-2009, 10:41 AM
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projectresto83
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Pull valve cover and turn the motor over by hand and make sure your valves are moving. That way you at least know your timing chain isn't broke. That DOESN"T mean that one of the woodruff keys didn't shear off though knocking off the whole engine timing.
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Old 09-07-2009, 01:41 PM
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Ill check that today when I get back from work. Im in agreement with mattdel, idk how its electrical with the clunk sound...makes me think I've got a more major issue!
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Old 09-07-2009, 02:53 PM
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pull your distributor cap off and see if you can turn the rotor by hand...


you shouldnt be able to
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Old 09-07-2009, 03:35 PM
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Ill definitely check that out too
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Old 09-09-2009, 11:58 PM
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Problem solved. The rotor in the distributor was broken, cost $7 to repair!
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