Hello:
In January my 86 GT died on me. Safely pulled over, and eventually towed home, no problems. I went through the shop manual and the rest of the ignition system checked out. I have a stash of TFI modules. I replaced it with a Ford unit and problem solved. Car runs just fine. The module that died was itself replaced about two and a half years ago when the car overheated. Well, the dash gauge didn't go to the H but close to it. Fortunately it was in a parking lot of a minimall with a parts store in it. Fixed in five minutes and got home. Replaced a faulty water pump. All systems go until this past January. I noticed the tach gyrating around while driving but no engine problems until shutoff.
Here we are in Spring. Tach showed some gyrating again even though temp and coolant level and water pump are fine. Only gyrated once and not as severe as previously. Engine purred fine. No hesitation. I do have a coolant leak that will need addressed. Its minor and tolerable but I'm thinking new factory water pump. I did flush the system and seems OK. Some minor debris. Car didn't overheat during the flush.
The engine runs hot since I've had it rebuilt back in 2000. I'd like to pull it and address the coolant leak and two minor oil leaks. Drain plug and low oil sensor connector. Plus some gaskets as they are weeping oil- mostly valve covers. The coolant leak may be the timing cover, not sure yet.
Here's why I am confused and thanks for reading thus far. If the TFI quits when hot, doesn't it run hot? And if heat is the real culprit, could the distributor stator also need to be replaced? It was about ten years ago and I have another. I also have some idle issues when cold but not always. Otherwise, it runs great. Don't want to get stuck anymore.
Am I on the right track or should I consider relocating the TFI. I have two left in my stash. Want more mystery? I checked the module and it passes all tests even though it stranded me three months ago. The one that died two years ago doesn't test OK. Neither will be going back on the vehicle, of course.
Thanks for the advice and ideas.
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