TFI modules SUCK! ASS!

[89stang1]

really plain and simple foxbody ignition systems suck oh yeah they do trust me ive read this before and always said what are they talking bout never happen to me, well after getting stranded plenty times (lost count) first off inside my MSD pro billet dizzy the pip sensor or called hall effect sensor craps out so i replace now im on a rash of TFI module crap outs. I always replace with better parts too, finally i thought my ignition problems were behind me well i went out for gas yesterday came home for 5 minutes then backing out of my driveway bam like you turned the key off...........really getting old atleast this time i was close to home, like it usually does after about and hour or so it restarts. So at this point im gonna go pick up another TFI the one in there is a month old from Napa they sell two one for like 30 bucks and the one i bought the upgraded Elkin made one for bout 80 bucks some say exact or better than motorcraft.........tip of the day keep and extra TFI module in your glove box;)

[1992vert]

That sux bro! Ive had pretty good luck so far, but...:pray:

[Silver91Hatch]

If you are running a MSD dizzy still you will continue to have issues. There is no porblems with the Motorcraft dizzy and module. I know plenty of people that have been fast with them, depend on them and daily drive them without issue. You thoery on replacing broken parts with better parts works 60% of the time, but most of the time a fastory part is the best part to run.

[Fox Family]

If you are running a MSD dizzy still you will continue to have issues. There is no porblems with the Motorcraft dizzy and module. I know plenty of people that have been fast with them, depend on them and daily drive them without issue. You thoery on replacing broken parts with better parts works 60% of the time, but most of the time a fastory part is the best part to run.


x2. When I was home las time in July, I replaces the TFI and...well the whole dist, due to the pip being iffy (cheaper and easier to replace whole dist than to replace pip)...for the first time EVER on the '86. Granted, it is stock, but the fact remains that the factory parts lasted w/o issue for 26 years. And I am pretty sure the TFI was still actually good, and it was the pip (hall effect, pick-up coil, whatever you want to call it ;) ) that was the issue. There was nothing physically wrong with the dist either for that matter...still within factory specs. The MSD stuff looks cool on a custom car, but almost all the local go-fast guys who actually depend on their rides daily use the factory dist.:thumbsup1:

[Silver Sleeper]

went through the same with my 93 LX 5.0...for some reason TFI modules did not last on that car.

[89stang1]

went through the same with my 93 LX 5.0...for some reason TFI modules did not last on that car.

its the location ....being mounted right on the dizzy it gets hot and fries them thats why they moved the TFI on SNs off the dizzy, funny thing is they still go bad there to not as often tho. Fox Family is right most folks now just use the billet MSD housing and put stock oem internals just what i did, my MSD pip went so i bought the better one at napa elkin made actually better part then msd had in there. Finally my tfi went so i put a elkin tfi with heat sink grease on the side thats against the dizzy and still here we go again:sad1:

[Fox Family]

its the location ....being mounted right on the dizzy it gets hot and fries them thats why they moved the TFI on SNs off the dizzy, funny thing is they still go bad there to not as often tho. Fox Family is right most folks now just use the billet MSD housing and put stock oem internals just what i did, my MSD pip went so i bought the better one at napa elkin made actually better part then msd had in there. Finally my tfi went so i put a elkin tfi with heat sink grease on the side thats against the dizzy and still here we go again:sad1:

One other thing to check...I did notice a rather crispy wire in the harness that connects to the TFI, and another brittle one in the harness that connects to the pip. Not broken, not burned, just hard insulation, and only on one wire in each harness, and only within the first 6" or so leading away from the dist. I replaced these sections with new matching gauge wire while I was there. Not sure if it had anything to do with it or not...maybe more resistance from rotten wiring in your harness causing TFI failures? Dunno. Maybe something to check tho.

[89stang1]

One other thing to check...I did notice a rather crispy wire in the harness that connects to the TFI, and another brittle one in the harness that connects to the pip. Not broken, not burned, just hard insulation, and only on one wire in each harness, and only within the first 6" or so leading away from the dist. I replaced these sections with new matching gauge wire while I was there. Not sure if it had anything to do with it or not...maybe more resistance from rotten wiring in your harness causing TFI failures? Dunno. Maybe something to check tho.

yup ive seen the wiring harness be the culprit before:thumbsup1:

[BANDITGT]

It's funny because I've noticed that alot of guys around still use a stock dizzy. Sometimes I felt like I had to had an MSD dizzy to go with my coil, cap/rotor. Maybe it would be better. But so far so good, no issues with my stocker for now. Crazy how a factory part can last soo much better than a re-pop. Hope you get everything worked out. :thumbsup1:

[Notch93]

It's funny because I've noticed that alot of guys around still use a stock dizzy. Sometimes I felt like I had to had an MSD dizzy to go with my coil, cap/rotor. Maybe it would be better. But so far so good, no issues with my stocker for now. Crazy how a factory part can last soo much better than a re-pop. Hope you get everything worked out. :thumbsup1:

:yeahthat:

Unless your going to turn your car real high RPM's, nothing beats a OEM distributor, IMO.

[Silver91Hatch]

:yeahthat:

Unless your going to turn your car real high RPM's, nothing beats a OEM distributor, IMO.

I know of two turned 7K+ without issue.

[89stang1]

It's funny because I've noticed that alot of guys around still use a stock dizzy. Sometimes I felt like I had to had an MSD dizzy to go with my coil, cap/rotor. Maybe it would be better. But so far so good, no issues with my stocker for now. Crazy how a factory part can last soo much better than a re-pop. Hope you get everything worked out. :thumbsup1:


I have msd pro billet dizzy, msd 6al-2 box, msd blaster coil, msd superconductor wires.....................out of all that msd stuff the wires are the only product i would buy again from them:thumbsdown1:

[1loudmouthpony]

i had the msd pro billet, i ran it but had TFI issues and the base of the distributor key on engine off would get very hot. i ditched it and put my motorcraft dizzy and module and never looked back:thumbsup1:

[GEO302]

You helped me get my New intake :patriot:,so i took some time to search for you.
I found this =
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BRAND-NEW-FORD-TFI-IGNITION-CONTROL-MODULE-IGNITOR-MADE-USA-/350509418430?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item519bfd47be

[89stang1]

You helped me get my New intake :patriot:,so i took some time to search for you.
I found this =
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BRAND-NEW-FORD-TFI-IGNITION-CONTROL-MODULE-IGNITOR-MADE-USA-/350509418430?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item519bfd47be


thats great bro im glad that worked out for ya......thanks for tfi link i think im gonna get one as a spare... today i went back to napa and exchanged the Elkin tfi i bought there was 75 bucks has a 5 year warranty so i figured why buy a new one, well i installed it drove around the block till reached 180 temp then i left it in driveway idling a minute thats where she cut off at least i was in driveway now im waiting for car to start ususally takes and hour or two so problem not TFI at this point im open for any suggestions thanks

[GEO302]

thats great bro im glad that worked out for ya......thanks for tfi link i think im gonna get one as a spare... today i went back to napa and exchanged the Elkin tfi i bought there was 75 bucks has a 5 year warranty so i figured why buy a new one, well i installed it drove around the block till reached 180 temp then i left it in driveway idling a minute thats where she cut off at least i was in driveway now im waiting for car to start ususally takes and hour or two so problem not TFI at this point im open for any suggestions thanks
Any idea where the fuel pressure is when it cuts off?
If your dropping Fuel pressure,It could be a pump going bad.
Since it fires up when the car is cold then dies and starts after a hour or so,the pump has colded down where it will function.
I have seen this many times

[GEO302]

Also,Check the ground on the TPS Sensor and harness.I have fixed the Black wire a few times,i have seen the pin push back and not make good contact.
Another thing to check is the Gray/Red Ground wire on the Vehicle Harness end of the junction for the TPS sensor.
I have fixed that ground before.
Check the Red/Green to Blue Fusable link the originally sat in the driverside corner near the booster.
I have repaired those aswell,That feeds the ignition signal to the coil and TFI module.
Another suggestion,if you have Never replaced the ignition switch,I would.
That switch when going bad can cause Alot of head aches.

[Bob@KMS]

99% of TFI/Dist issues are with aftermarket distributors... as everyone has said, get a FORD MOTORCRAFT distributor and TFI module and your problems will be gone... hell, half the aftermarket EMS's on the market that work with a TFI wont work with an MSD dist.

[89stang1]

thanks guys all good ideas to check....my fuel pressure readings have been steady and good the ignition switch ive never changed. When my pip sensor took a crap couple months back car ran horrible had a real big mis bucked hard and tach was bouncing all over the place, this problem is different car starts and drives normal then after warmed up she cuts out like turning key off happens at any speed with no warning, cranks a little faster than normal when you try to restart it. Then after and hour or two car starts like it had no problem, i was gonna replace msd blaster coil next they are not too expensive and with the symptoms its my best guess.......what do you guys think:patriot:

[GEO302]

thanks guys all good ideas to check....my fuel pressure readings have been steady and good the ignition switch ive never changed. When my pip sensor took a crap couple months back car ran horrible had a real big mis bucked hard and tach was bouncing all over the place, this problem is different car starts and drives normal then after warmed up she cuts out like turning key off happens at any speed with no warning, cranks a little faster than normal when you try to restart it. Then after and hour or two car starts like it had no problem, i was gonna replace msd blaster coil next they are not too expensive and with the symptoms its my best guess.......what do you guys think:patriot:

Coil & Ignition Switch.
You may find a Heavy Gauge wire coming out of the ignition switch connector ( Dont be Suprised )
I run a bead of hot glue on ALL Ignition Switch wires to the Plastic Connector.

[89stang1]

so i put a new coil in on sunday nite and tried her out last nite drove her around the block till it got close to 180 degrees. Then back in the garage cant trust car breaking down on the road, let her idle for awhile then shut car off after a couple minutes i restarted car idled for ten seconds then it shut off by itself again and didnt restart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:thumbsdown1::sad1: usually takes a couple hours before it restarts ......not sure what to do next im getting tired of throwing parts at it any suggestions would be appreciated:thumbsup1:

[Silver91Hatch]

Have you bought a motorcraft TFI and stator?? All I keep seeing is the "elkin" unit, no motorcraft. Pull codes, its possibly a different issue all together. Check for injector pulse and spark at the plugs when it won't restart.

[89stang1]

Have you bought a motorcraft TFI and stator?? All I keep seeing is the "elkin" unit, no motorcraft. Pull codes, its possibly a different issue all together. Check for injector pulse and spark at the plugs when it won't restart.

ive put in two different new TFI modules and stator (pip sensor) i replaced a month ago was different symptoms with that car never shut down had a bad mis this problem car runs fine then its like key is turned off. Im gonna get a spark checker tonite to see if im getting anything at dizzy

[Silver91Hatch]

Have you bought a motorcraft TFI and stator??

....

[fast50]

I have never had a TFI go out on any ford I have owned. But they all had the stock dist with a MSD 6 family box.

[89stang1]

im also gonna try to find a Equus 3145 code reader im hoping a local auto parts has one. Anybody here have one? do u like it? or not?...........i know all u need is a paper clip ...i wanna make it as easy as possible;)

[NC STANG GUY]

im also gonna try to find a Equus 3145 code reader im hoping a local auto parts has one. Anybody here have one? do u like it? or not?...........i know all u need is a paper clip ...i wanna make it as easy as possible;)

Pretty sure Eric has one. Notch93.

[Notch93]

im also gonna try to find a Equus 3145 code reader im hoping a local auto parts has one. Anybody here have one? do u like it? or not?

I have one and love it, a lot easier then other code readers and the paper clip method.

Pretty sure Eric has one. Notch93.

:yes1:

A lot better then the beeps.

[GEO302]

Time for Computer

[89stang1]

I have one and love it, a lot easier then other code readers and the paper clip method.



:yes1:

A lot better then the beeps.


good im gonna get one for sure thanks :thumbsup1:




Time for Computer

i hope not but then again at this point i would like to put and end to this whatever it takes!!

[Fox Family]

so i put a new coil in on sunday nite and tried her out last nite drove her around the block till it got close to 180 degrees. Then back in the garage cant trust car breaking down on the road, let her idle for awhile then shut car off after a couple minutes i restarted car idled for ten seconds then it shut off by itself again and didnt restart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:thumbsdown1::sad1: usually takes a couple hours before it restarts ......not sure what to do next im getting tired of throwing parts at it any suggestions would be appreciated:thumbsup1:

This is EXACTLY what I was telling you my '86 was doing. Even the spinning faster thing when trying to start. I did all the same checks you did, even compression. I replaced the dist and TFI TOGETHER...AT THE SAME TIME...with a reman FOMOCO dist, and a new motorcraft TFI...and redid a bit of the wiring going to the dist with new sections...no more problems...period.:thumbsup1:

[5.0 LIFER]

See if anyone has a spare comp u can use to see if it will cure the prob. That way there's no money spent and you could eliminate the comp being the prob.:thumbsup1: Sounds like foxfamily is onto something tho. Good luck bro.

[89stang1]

Last nite i tested for spark after goin for a little drive car reached 180 temp i pulled her in garage shut her off then restarted car let idle for a minute true to form right at about 185 degrees she shuts off with no restart. First i tested for spark at sparkplug then in between coil and dizzy NO SPARK! two hours later car starts right up, im thinking now comp. or msd box what do you guys think thanks

[Silver91Hatch]

Have you bought a motorcraft TFI and stator??

....

This...

[89stang1]

This...

huh.... im not getting spark before tfi or stator ive tried 2 different brand new tfi's both tested out ok after being tested each 10 times both were heated also. Stator i replaced 2 months ago all parts are not Motorcraft and i do realize Motorcraft is best but all the working tfi's and stators out there are not only motorcraft ones thanks:thumbsup1:

[Silver91Hatch]

huh.... im not getting spark before tfi or stator ive tried 2 different brand new tfi's both tested out ok after being tested each 10 times both were heated also. Stator i replaced 2 months ago all parts are not Motorcraft and i do realize Motorcraft is best but all the working tfi's and stators out there are not only motorcraft ones thanks:thumbsup1:

What do you think tells the coil to fire???

[GEO302]

I still say ECM
Try and just bypass the MSD before buying one.

[89stang1]

I still say ECM
Try and just bypass the MSD before buying one.

i hope your right ecm is alot cheaper and way easier to install than msd box.......gonna be a nitemare to bypass msd all wires are hidden in fenderwell im waiting for my Equus 3145 code reader to get delivered then we will see if it gives up any code info

[Silver91Hatch]

If you have the MSD coil harness you can unplug it from the factory harness and plug the factory harness into the coil. That will bypass the MSD.

[89stang1]

If you have the MSD coil harness you can unplug it from the factory harness and plug the factory harness into the coil. That will bypass the MSD.

thanks for help....we didnt use the junky msd adapter harness mine is wired in so it aint gonna be as easy im hoping when fedex delivers my Equus 3145 code reader it will give me and idea whether its the ecm comp or the msd box

[90ssp]

PIP in my new MSD Pro Billet gave same symptoms after about 7 min. or about the time thermostat opened. It was new less than 25 miles.
I tried changing TFI modules finally put PIP in original dist . Started and ran fine. Advanced Auto warrantied MSD.
Still gunshy with MSD after reading everybodys posts about them .
Foxes Rule !!!

[89stang1]

PIP in my new MSD Pro Billet gave same symptoms after about 7 min. or about the time thermostat opened. It was new less than 25 miles.
I tried changing TFI modules finally put PIP in original dist . Started and ran fine. Advanced Auto warrantied MSD.
Still gunshy with MSD after reading everybodys posts about them .
Foxes Rule !!!

i replaced pip sensor and last time when car shuts down i did a spark check and there was no spark before dizzy so ive ruled out dizzy

[90ssp]

If you know someone who has a known good spare ,plug it into your harness ,clip on a ground , and spin it by hand while checking for spark at coil.
PIP triggers TFI and sends pulse to coil.

Foxes Rule !!!

[Silver91Hatch]

i replaced pip sensor and last time when car shuts down i did a spark check and there was no spark before dizzy so ive ruled out dizzy

You don't understand. The dizzy tells the PCM via the TFI when to trigger the coil, which sparks and runs down the coil wire where the rotor sends it to the correct spark plug wire then to the plug. If the dizzy isn't talking or the TFI isn't relaying the message the coil never fires and the rotor never gets spark, then the plugs never get it from the rotor...

[89stang1]

You don't understand. The dizzy tells the PCM via the TFI when to trigger the coil, which sparks and runs down the coil wire where the rotor sends it to the correct spark plug wire then to the plug. If the dizzy isn't talking or the TFI isn't relaying the message the coil never fires and the rotor never gets spark, then the plugs never get it from the rotor...

you are right im new to all these ignition problems..... tfi does tell trigger coil but do you think i could have a bad tfi still with two new ones tried on the car neither worked and both tested ok. I would love for it to be that easy, you dont think with my symptoms it could be msd box or ecm? thanks for the help Silver91Hatch

[Frankensteinlx]

On the MSD site is a troubleshooting guide to test the output from the MSD box. If you're using a digital 6 box I've had some problems with them.

[89stang1]

On the MSD site is a troubleshooting guide to test the output from the MSD box. If you're using a digital 6 box I've had some problems with them.

no its a 6al-2 box....ive been on the msd trouble shooting site i even have a post on there with my problem, after reading a ton of posts there its made me more confused:thumbsdown1:

[Silver91Hatch]

I do think it could be the MSD(My Spark Disappered), ECM is unlikely. When you are trying to start it and the engine will not run, does the fuel pump prime and cut off or run continious??

[89stang1]

I do think it could be the MSD(My Spark Disappered), ECM is unlikely. When you are trying to start it and the engine will not run, does the fuel pump prime and cut off or run continious??


MSD(may suddenly die) ...fuel pump primes once and cuts off and car has no symptoms at all runs normal fuel pressure is good too its like turning key off, it does crank fast when not starting. It only happens after temp reaches 180 degrees then no spark or restart for 2 hours. Were you thinking maybe fuel pump relay under drivers seat because i know If the ECM sees problems in the fuel-pump circuit it will prevent the TFI from firing the coil. I also pulled spout when she didnt start i read somewhere if it runs only spout out its the pip

[R_Williams]

Did you check the Alternator? The 93 LX I used to have was doing the exact same thing and it was a bad diode in the alt. It was just cut off and wouldnt crank back up then it would turn over real fast just wouldnt crank. I dont know if thats your problem but test the alt. to rule it out...........

[Silver91Hatch]

First step is to bypass the MSD and see what we have.

[89stang1]

First step is to bypass the MSD and see what we have.

lol you would say that.....gonna be a pita!! box is all wired and wires are in fender....do you think im gonna get any info with a code reader mine is coming today

[Xporter]

I know it's stupid but you are putting a decent amount of film on the back of the new TFI? It's like a heat sink between the TFI and the dizzy.

[Fox Family]

Still say if you ditch the Mighty Stressful Dilemma, and go back factory stock, your problems will disappear. Wont be as pretty, maybe paint the dist red or something if that is what is stopping you. I would rather have a factory car that runs than a blinged out driveway ornament.

No offense intended, your car is a beauty...just saying that it has been brought up many times by myself and many others, and you just avoid the topic. Maybe its time to ditch the bling and start over.:thumbsup1:

[89stang1]

Still say if you ditch the Mighty Stressful Dilemma, and go back factory stock, your problems will disappear. Wont be as pretty, maybe paint the dist red or something if that is what is stopping you. I would rather have a factory car that runs than a blinged out driveway ornament.

No offense intended, your car is a beauty...just saying that it has been brought up many times by myself and many others, and you just avoid the topic. Maybe its time to ditch the bling and start over.:thumbsup1:

mighty stressful dilemma..... lol love it!! actually msd box is kinda hidden in engine bayi wouldnt call it a bling mod lol more like gives you a little more hit and better performance mod that is wired in without any harness and wires are in fender another words a royal pain in the ass to take out. This is why if i can determine its the box i will replace it with another and splice the wires and connect the new one which is WAY EASIER!!.................. (go back factory stock, your problems will disappear. Wont be as pretty, maybe paint the dist red or something if that is what is stopping you. I would rather have a factory car that runs than a blinged out driveway ornament).... WTF! my fancy dizzy has all new stock oem internal parts new pip sensor, cap and rotor, replaced and the tfi has been changed twice for new ones the rest of that blinged out driveway ornament msd dizzy is just the aluminum housing ...........come on man dont be a hater

[89stang1]

I know it's stupid but you are putting a decent amount of film on the back of the new TFI? It's like a heat sink between the TFI and the dizzy.

oh yeah i even bought the good **** artic silver heat sink grease:thumbsup1:

[89stang1]

i got codes i wasnt able to start car and drive it till it had the problem was raining out but ran the codes anyway picked up a 67 which i think i got cause clutch pedal wasnt held down during scan. Second code was 85 that i think i got for no smog pump i will have to see after i run her to see what codes

[188slo50]

My car is doing the same thing to the "T" and its not your MSD box cause I bypassed mine thinking the same and no change. I just ordered a FORD TFI and going to try that since Ive been told by everyone to switch them. If you figure it out before me post up what you did.

[Fox Family]

mighty stressful dilemma..... lol love it!! actually msd box is kinda hidden in engine bayi wouldnt call it a bling mod lol more like gives you a little more hit and better performance mod that is wired in without any harness and wires are in fender another words a royal pain in the ass to take out. This is why if i can determine its the box i will replace it with another and splice the wires and connect the new one which is WAY EASIER!!.................. (go back factory stock, your problems will disappear. Wont be as pretty, maybe paint the dist red or something if that is what is stopping you. I would rather have a factory car that runs than a blinged out driveway ornament).... WTF! my fancy dizzy has all new stock oem internal parts new pip sensor, cap and rotor, replaced and the tfi has been changed twice for new ones the rest of that blinged out driveway ornament msd dizzy is just the aluminum housing ...........come on man dont be a hater


NO NO NO!! I think you misunderstood me bro! I am NOT hating on your car by ANY means! I think it is gorgeous...and I even said so before. What I was saying was maybe changing out the internals is not good enough. I know you did that to retain the looks...the bling factor...rather than just buying a $59 reman FOMOCO with all factory internals and dropping it in. That would have been cheaper and easier than what you did. That is all I was saying. I would rather have the ugly dist that works, than the bling dist that causes my car to sit...and be a driveway ornament.:thumbsup1:

No hate intended.

This is STILL what I would do. Go buy OEM FOMOCO actual parts, and see if that cures your issue. If it does, then you can chrome plate the dist or something to re-bling it.

[89stang1]

NO NO NO!! I think you misunderstood me bro! I am NOT hating on your car by ANY means! I think it is gorgeous...and I even said so before. What I was saying was maybe changing out the internals is not good enough. I know you did that to retain the looks...the bling factor...rather than just buying a $59 reman FOMOCO with all factory internals and dropping it in. That would have been cheaper and easier than what you did. That is all I was saying. I would rather have the ugly dist that works, than the bling dist that causes my car to sit...and be a driveway ornament.:thumbsup1:

No hate intended.

This is STILL what I would do. Go buy OEM FOMOCO actual parts, and see if that cures your issue. If it does, then you can chrome plate the dist or something to re-bling it.


lmao!!! i wouldnt give 2 shits if it was a purple dizzy as long as it works so really you are getting me all wrong!!! my car is not a garage queen i take it out almost everyday as long as its not raining. There is nothing i would love more than this to be a tfi problem lol my engine builder is sending me a brand new msd tfi he offered i can try i know its not ford trust me they are not the only tfi out there working lol

i used my new equus 3145 code reader last nite after it did it shut off thing once it got over 180 degrees so any code experts i got a 27, 67, 85, 15 really the 27 is the one im wondering if anybody has some info on thanks:thumbsup1:

[89stang1]

My car is doing the same thing to the "T" and its not your MSD box cause I bypassed mine thinking the same and no change. I just ordered a FORD TFI and going to try that since Ive been told by everyone to switch them. If you figure it out before me post up what you did.

will do................. if that motorcraft tfi does the trick i will buy one too it will be the 4th tfi i tried. Did you read my whole thread, your car shuts off after it up around 180 degrees too, how long till your car restarts ........did you have any spark at sparkplug or in between coil and dizzy when it shuts off.

[188slo50]

will do................. if that motorcraft tfi does the trick i will buy one too it will be the 4th tfi i tried. Did you read my whole thread, your car shuts off after it up around 180 degrees too, how long till your car restarts ........did you have any spark at sparkplug or in between coil and dizzy when it shuts off.

Yea I read it alll and its right around the 170-180 mark when it cuts off. I have to wait about 3 or so hrs for it to restart and repeat the same process. I havent checked the spark at the plugs before but I know one of the times it didnt have it at the coil what so ever but a few times it did try to start and imediatly just die.

[90ssp]

Mine would shut off at 180 .when I tried to restart it had no spark at coil due to no trigger signal from TFI. I thought it could not be a 1week old dist. I called MSD their techs said it was probably in my wiring or computer. I checked every wire in the 60 pin connector for continuity and ground. Already had new TFI in original dist ,added new PIP . Plugged in dist and grounded, did not even install just spun by hand ;coil fired everytime . Advance auto gave me another new MSD overnight. Installed and car runs perfect. Still hanging on to my original for future problems.

Foxes Rule !!!

ps . my avitar is my car returning from failed dist.

[89stang1]

Mine would shut off at 180 .when I tried to restart it had no spark at coil due to no trigger signal from TFI. I thought it could not be a 1week old dist. I called MSD their techs said it was probably in my wiring or computer. I checked every wire in the 60 pin connector for continuity and ground. Already had new TFI in original dist ,added new PIP . Plugged in dist and grounded, did not even install just spun by hand ;coil fired everytime . Advance auto gave me another new MSD overnight. Installed and car runs perfect. Still hanging on to my original for future problems.

Foxes Rule !!!

ps . my avitar is my car returning from failed dist.


so yours turned out to be pip i replaced mine 2 months ago i had different symptoms with pip car ran but had bad mis bucked hard tach was jumping car wasnt even drivable ...........ignition problems suck!

[89stang1]

Yea I read it alll and its right around the 170-180 mark when it cuts off. I have to wait about 3 or so hrs for it to restart and repeat the same process. I havent checked the spark at the plugs before but I know one of the times it didnt have it at the coil what so ever but a few times it did try to start and imediatly just die.

sounds real similiar but when mine dies there is no hope at all for restart for a couple hours, one other thing when you crank car after it dies it cranks kinda fast

[Frankensteinlx]

Sounds like you have checked everything that I would.
Does anything happen around 180 degrees on your car?
Like electric fan or fans turn on? It's out there but could be problem with control side of fan or fan pulling down system voltage.. Just trying to think outside of the box...

[188slo50]

sounds real similiar but when mine dies there is no hope at all for restart for a couple hours, one other thing when you crank car after it dies it cranks kinda fast

Yep cranks like a 16v system.

[89stang1]

Sounds like you have checked everything that I would.
Does anything happen around 180 degrees on your car?
Like electric fan or fans turn on? It's out there but could be problem with control side of fan or fan pulling down system voltage.. Just trying to think outside of the box...

about now im up for any suggestions.......fans come on at 170 degrees i'll watch for that

[89stang1]

Yep cranks like a 16v system.


dam sounds like we have exact problem!! ...man i cant wait for problem to be over be like the best Christmas present!!!!:yes1:

[89stang1]

havent had a chance to mess with car for a couple days, last nite i ran car till shut off then put in my spare tfi. Both tfi modules work at start up and then car fails the same way with both. After i put spare in car didnt start so im gonna take tfi off list and look else where, i ran code again after and got 67 even holding down clutch during test 85 and 15

[Silver91Hatch]

Engine to chassis ground?

[89stang1]

Engine to chassis ground?

checked good ground......what about ecu power relay or temp control in front of manifold on drivers side if it fails can it send signal to ecm to shut off spark? the eec relay under drivers seat looks like it got hot do you think the eec relay could cause the problem im having...........so many possibilities i hate electronics!!!!!!!!!!

[Silver91Hatch]

EEC relay isn't under the drivers seat, the fuel pump relay is. The EEC relay is under the dash, above the PCM. Its possible that its not operating but if it wasn't the fuel pump wouldn't prime.

I've made a stator/TFI tester. I have a known good 2.3L dizzy with a wire bolted to it with an alligator clip on the other end. When a car shuts off and I suspect the TFI/stator is the issue I unhook the TFI plug and connect it to the tester, hook the alligator clip to a good ground, turn th ekey on, unhook the coil wire and spin the dizzy as if the engine was running, if the coil wire fires now I know its a TFI/stator problem. If it doesn't fire then check for issues in the harness, coil, powers and ground.

[90ssp]

The test dissy that Silver91Hatch described is how I found my problem only mine was off a v-8. When car gets hot and shuts off , plug it in,ground, and give it a spin. I just plugged a spark plug into coil wire and grounded plug.

[89stang1]

EEC relay isn't under the drivers seat, the fuel pump relay is. The EEC relay is under the dash, above the PCM. Its possible that its not operating but if it wasn't the fuel pump wouldn't prime.

I've made a stator/TFI tester. I have a known good 2.3L dizzy with a wire bolted to it with an alligator clip on the other end. When a car shuts off and I suspect the TFI/stator is the issue I unhook the TFI plug and connect it to the tester, hook the alligator clip to a good ground, turn th ekey on, unhook the coil wire and spin the dizzy as if the engine was running, if the coil wire fires now I know its a TFI/stator problem. If it doesn't fire then check for issues in the harness, coil, powers and ground.

yes relay under drivers seat i thought was called eec relay. Doesnt that relay get power for initial start prime from computer

[GEO302]

Relay under drivers seat is the FUEL PUMP Relay.
The ECM RELAY is a P.I.T.A to get to.
Pull out the ECM and feel for the relay high inside the kick panel area above where the computer lives.

[Silver91Hatch]

yes relay under drivers seat i thought was called eec relay. Doesnt that relay get power for initial start prime from computer

It does get power FROM the ECM, it does not send power too the ECM.

[89stang1]

It does get power FROM the ECM, it does not send power too the ECM.


what i would love to know is can the fuel pump relay thats under drivers seat malfunction and shut down spark to coil and dizzy and cause the symptoms im getting. Because one of the wires going into holder the relay plugs into is exposed like its pulled out some and plastic in that area is melt some thanks for the help

[Silver91Hatch]

what i would love to know is can the fuel pump relay thats under drivers seat malfunction and shut down spark to coil and dizzy and cause the symptoms im getting. Because one of the wires going into holder the relay plugs into is exposed like its pulled out some and plastic in that area is melt some thanks for the help

It will not. It could be a few issues that add up to one symptom.

[89stang1]

It will not. It could be a few issues that add up to one symptom.

thanks bro..... im no expert with ignition nitemares

[89stang1]

UPDATE: i decided to replace computer with a reman. unit from Advanced Auto. After putting in the new comp. problem was still there but this time when i ran codes i got different ones the two 02 sensor codes and code 14 PIP FAILURE! with my original comp i never got the 14. So even tho i replaced my pip sensor back in july it looks like thats my problem. I had different symtoms then car would buck hard at 3000rpms and tach would jump around but never strand me. Its been a couple days now and car is still not cutting out THANK GOD! but time will tell definitely made a difference. Now i have alot of spare ignition parts to keep in car im sure i will need them :sad1: .....thanks for all the help:thumbsup1:

[GEO302]

UPDATE: i decided to replace computer with a reman. unit from Advanced Auto. After putting in the new comp. problem was still there but this time when i ran codes i got different ones the two 02 sensor codes and code 14 PIP FAILURE! with my original comp i never got the 14. So even tho i replaced my pip sensor back in july it looks like thats my problem. I had different symtoms then car would buck hard at 3000rpms and tach would jump around but never strand me. Its been a couple days now and car is still not cutting out THANK GOD! but time will tell definitely made a difference. Now i have alot of spare ignition parts to keep in car im sure i will need them :sad1: .....thanks for all the help:thumbsup1: Glad it's FINALLY Fixed !!! ENJOY !!!!

[Silver91Hatch]

I just wanna know what brand pick up you put back in it??

[89stang1]

I just wanna know what brand pick up you put back in it??

not motorcraft..... a free echlin one with the 5 year warranty as long as they are free then echlin going in i spent enough cash. I didnt have to pay for the last echlin tfi either but if the money has to come out of my wallet it will be motorcraft from now on;) since july all the difffernt problems turned out to be 2 pip sensors only thing is i wasnt able to figure this out till i changed comp then i got code 14.

thanks GEO302 best christmas present ive had since being a youngster lol ive been out cruising alot the last couple days as much as i was starting to hate car with these ignition problems the last couple days is starting to erase all the hate:)

[188slo50]

Mine must be a different problem than cause mine already has a new computer from my MAF conversion. I got a buddy whos going to let me borrow his whole dist. from his dd next weekend so Ill see if thats the case or not.:pray:

[89stang1]

Mine must be a different problem than cause mine already has a new computer from my MAF conversion. I got a buddy whos going to let me borrow his whole dist. from his dd next weekend so Ill see if thats the case or not.:pray:




thats what ya gotta do its gonna be the tfi or pip...... good luck keep us posted:thumbsup1:

[Notch93]

Great news, congrats.:thumbsup2:

[89stang1]

Great news, congrats.:thumbsup2:

thanks:thumbsup1: i tell ya it was really starting to get to me ignition problems can really drive ya crazy:crazy2:

[90ssp]

Im with you on this.
just hard to believe the new parts have failed but in time you eliminate all the other possibilitys.
MSD tech guy said he thought it was my computer or wiring.
I checked every wire leaving comp to eng. finally decided it had to be the dist.
Glad you got it running. You now also have some hard earned knowlege on Ford TFI ign. systems.

Foxes Rule !!!

[R_Williams]

That great news man, Im glad you finally got her straightened out!