Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 5/11/2004

Question
my 83 cj-7 straight six will start and only run for a couple minutes then die and not start again. there is no sputtering or anything it just dies. after the engine will turn over but there seems to be no spark. any help would be appreciated

Answer
1) confirm spark by pulling the large coil wire off of the center of the distributor cap, hold it about 1/4" from the engine block and crank the engine. If it sparks, you probably have a fuel delivery problem. No spark indicates an ignition problem.
2) No spark: Check for 9+ Volts at the (+) side of the ignition coil with the key on. Voltage present: possible coil, ignition module, or distributor pick up. No Voltage: Open in the wiring from the battery-ignition switch-coil or ignition module.
3) Spark: Remove air cleaner and check for fuel being sprayed in carburetor with the engine OFF, looking down into the carb, when operating the throttle from under the hood. Fuel: Carburetor needs attention. No fuel: Possible fuel pump, restricted fuel filter or pick up in tank.
If you do this and need assistance in narrowing it down further, let me know.
Good Luck