Q&A

 Master

"Popping and sputtering" could be caused by a few things. If the engine is mechanically sound then it needs to be determined if is a fuel or ignition problem. The fuel pressure should be about 40 psi with the engine running and supply about 1 pint in ten seconds of running/cranking. The fuel filter is easy to change (it's under the truck on the chassis rail but needs quick disconnect tools to disengage the fuel line from the filter, any auto parts store has them). Check for obvious vacuum leaks, then check the ignition system thoroughly. Check the distributor cap wires and rotor, with the engine running put water in a Windolene bottle, tile and shower cleaner, or similar spray bottle. Mist water onto the spark plug wires and cap, if the insulation is good the engine idle should not change, if a plug wire is weak the engine will falter and you may see or hear the spark shorting to ground. For more detailed and specific tests Autozone have some popular workshop manuals for free on line once you register (for free) on their website http://bit.ly/autozone_repair_info. There is a company that independent auto repair shops get their information from, this same information is available inexpensively for people that work on their own cars.. The information is year make and model specific, covering repair procedures, torque specifications, fluid capacities and specifications, service bulletins, component locations, wiring diagrams ect.... Alldata is very easy to navigate http://bit.ly/AllData_Repair_Manuals_Online