Engine Stalls When Warmed Up

[Bking241]

Recently purchased a ‘59 AH 100-6. Car stalls when engine gets hot. Won't start again until engine cools off.

Thinking it was vapor lock, I recently insulated fuel lines to deflect engine / manifold heat. Still have problem.

 

[NutmegCT]

B - welcome to the Forum.

We need a few more details.

What does the former owner say about the stalling problem?

Are you running the stock carbs original to the car?

When was the last time the carbs (idle, mixture) were adjusted?

Does the stalling occur during warm *idle*? or only when accelerating, when the engine is warm?

Does the engine start, idle, and rev up smoothly when cold?

Tom M.

 

[Bking241]

Hi Tom,
Thanks for reply. Former owner thought vapor lock. Yes, stock carbs. Carbs adjusted a couple weeks ago. Stalling occurs during acceleration and then also during idling. Yes, when cold the engine idles and revs fine.
Bob

 

[red57]

Can you describe "stalling" more clearly? Does it simply stop running like the key was turned off or does it sputter/stumble/cough/spit, then die? Same symptoms when accelerating as when idling?

What is the ambient temp where you are and are you driving in stop & go city traffic or out on the open road?

What type of ignition system, stock points & condenser or electronic?

 

[Bking241]

It sputters/stumble/ cough / spit / backfires a bit then dies. I checked temp gauge when it dies and its mid range 160-190 I have attached some photos of engine to maybe shed light on components. Thanks for yours time !

 

[red57]

So, when it starts to stumble you could try pulling the choke to see if it smooths out any. That might tell you if it's going lean due to fuel issues.

I tend to think it more likely an electrical issue.

Unless it has been converted to electronic (like Pertronix or similar) I suspect the condenser may be the problem - If it's been converted to electronic, there is no condenser. It also could be the coil. Both of these items can fail when hot and work OK again when they cool off. Easiest way to test is to simply swap out new or known good parts. Most of us travel with spare condensers, coils, rotors, caps for this very reason.

Wherever you're located, you may want to join the nearest Healey club to have some helpful resources nearby.

 

[Bking241]

Thanks for your help!