Intro: '76 FJ40 in South America & a "Timing" issue that wasn't timing

[CloudForestCruise]

Hello Everyone,

Just wanted to introduce myself and share a my recent experience. I just purchased a '76 FJ40 here in South America where I live. It’s an older frame-off restoration with a clean interior, though I'm sorting out some questionable local wiring "repairs" (mostly tape and twisted wires and even some bare disconnected wires).

I ran into a specific issue that might help others. The truck was running fine, then suddenly wouldn't shut off with the key. Immediately after, it developed a rough idle and would sputter, backfire, and stall when given gas.

Standard logic suggested the distributor jumped timing. In fact, that is the logic of the web too. Lots of people have this problem and the go-to answer is the distributor. However, my culprit was the Idle Fuel Cut-Off Solenoid (specifically a mangled purple wire).

Mostly what I found said a bad cut-off solenoid only affects idle, dieseling, and starting. In my case, it caused significant issues at higher RPMs/under load, mimicking bad timing. If you have these symptoms appear suddenly, check your solenoid wiring before adjusting the distributor.

Hope this helps someone,

James

 

[charliemeyer007]

Welcome Nice looking rig.

A few weeks ago my 72 developed a new issue. In reverse I can switch the key off and it will keep running until I take it out of reverse. I generally leave it parked in reverse for days/weeks at a time and the battery doesn't go flat. I have a separate switched back up light, but I suspect the reverse switch on the tranny is still hooked up. Too cold out now to solve the issue now. The joys of 50 year old wires and 7 PO's.

 

[knuckle47]

That is just so well stated ….”The joys of 50 year old wires and 7 PO’s”

Amazing how each owner has their own thoughts on how to wire something

 

[CloudForestCruise]

I've assembled everything needed to modernize my electrical system. I'm installing a power distribution box in the engine compartment and replacing the disintegrating barrel style fuse block. I ordered one of those generic classic car wiring kits, but am not ready to tackle that. So I bought 3 of those cheap pre wired fuse blocks from Amazon. One will be 12v constant, one ignitioned, and the last for accessory power. I wanted all on one panel so I found a shop here in Loja that has a huge laser cutter. I made a cardboard template. The maestro created a digital template and cut it out for me for only $15.

 

[charliemeyer007]

Your Amoron link just goes to amoron, not very helpful.

 

[Howl]

If you're in need of original style Cruiser wiring, connectors etc., check out Coolerman his site is

Cruiser Wiring