Classic/Antique Car Repair/Engine Cuts Out

Advertisement

Expert: - 6/14/2008


Question
I have a '65 Pontiac Bonneville with a 389 4 barrel carb with 62k original miles. This car is in good shape over all. My engine cut out, would not start and I had to be towed home. I have not trusted my fuel gauge so I filled the tank with about 15 gallons of gas and added some dry gas. I started it today and idled it in the driveway for about 30 minutes after taking it around the block. I suddenly started sputtering and then died. Is the mechanical fuel pump my # 1 suspect? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Ward:
Your fuel pump sound suspect. However, you may need to try a few more things to pinpoint the problems. If you idled for 30 minutes, that could mean the fuel pump is working enough to support idling. Start her up from could and try driving her immediately and see if she will take the gas. If not it could be anything from a clog fuel filter to a clog fuel line to the fuel pump. You will have to check all three. Make sure the fuel filter is not old and clogged. This would cause good idling but bad performance just like the fuel pump.

Classic/Antique Car Repair

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Vern Bullock

Expertise

Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience

I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.