JS1990

I have a 1987 Toyota pickup, 2wd with the 22R motor (carbureted). I was driving my truck down the highway and was at a redlight, as I went to leave the light engine died while releasing clutch. The engine turns over but will not start. Made sure all grounds are good, replaced the cap and rotor, spark plugs and spark plug wires, the distributor pickup coil, the main coil and also the ignition control module. Engine sounds like it wants to start but won't turn over. Tried push starting and tried with starting fluid. Does anyone have any ideas?

Mr.Utah

Did the starting fluid do anything?

JS1990

Not at all, it got closer to starting on its own will

Mr.Utah

You did check your fuel right?

JS1990

Yeah, I am getting fuel. Also checked all my relays and fuses. Checked any visible wiring as well and is all ok

Mr.Utah

If it sounded like it was going to start better with the starting fluid, I would check/replace fuel filter.

Mr.Utah

Has it ever died before like this

JS1990

Yeah it seemed closer to starting when I just let it do its own thing. But will check fuel systems tomorrow to verify. I'm pretty certain its some small electrical issue with something, but am definitely open to any suggestions

JS1990

Negative

Mr.Utah

It could be a number of things. Fuel, air, spark. It could also be vacuum related, check and make sure your vacuum lines are on, there is a whole nest of them. A bad distributor can also cause the sudden death (this happened to me). Inspect air cleaner and carb and float bowl.

JS1990

Thanks, the suggestions are much appreciated! I will put some more work into the trouble and see if an issue can be found

Mr.Utah

Did you get it resolved?

JS1990

Unfortunately not yet. I have to wait until Wednesday in order to try a new distributor. Everything else however seems fine

Mr.Utah

Well, if you lived here in Vegas I would give you one.

JS1990

Right on man I appreciate that. I actually have a spare, but it goes on a efi motor and for that reason obviously won't work with the engine in my truck. Luckily they aren't too expensive. I should be able to know by Wednesday night if that is gonna do the trick. Getting down there to the last bit of hope before I start stripping it down and going over it inch by inch