Intermittent Stall

[Ed McGettigan]

66 Vette / Automatic

The engine intermittently stalls for no apparent reason. It will stall both when idling and when driving. When it stalls, I believe it to be electrical rather than mechanical since the radio goes off when the engine stalls. Besides a bad ignition switch, can anyone give another other suggestions on what to check?

In addition, I believe my alternator has a bad diode because the dash and headlights they dim and return to normal repeatedly. I've ordered a new alternator. Can this in anyway cause the engine to stall?

Thanks...

[John H.]

Re: Intermittent Stall

Ed -

Check for the "red wire syndrome" in the inboard multiple connector on the engine side of the fuse block; that wire is the main power feed for the ignition switch, and if the terminals in the multiple connector become corroded, that increases resistance, generates heat, and the terminal can melt the plastic in its cavity and result in intermittent (or complete) electrical failure.

[Les Jacobs]

Re: Intermittent Stall

Ed I had a similar problem. Turned out the connector on the battery terminal was marginal. When cold it was tight enough to make good contact and car started fine. But when hot it loosened up, poor connection resulted and any kind of load that the alternator couldn't meet would kill the engine. Bottom Line-possible ground problem.

[James W.]

Re: Intermittent Stall

Ed...

I had the same type of problem with my 64. It would stall for no reason when idling or in traffic. Chased the problem for about 2 days before discovering it was the ignition condenser. Replaced it and everything was fine. Hope this helps.

Regards,

James West
Omaha, NE.