I apologize if I re-hash a common thread. I searched but didn't find what I needed, so I'm gonna throw it out there. My Maverick is a '77 with a 250/auto. Recently it started acting strange, but I didn't notice because it hasn't been out on the highway. Around town, it drives fine - no issues at all. Once I get it above 50-55 mph, it loses power and won't accelerate. It will kick down into passing gear, but it only adds a soundtrack and doesn't go any faster. Any suggestions? I'm no mechanic/tech... but I fully understand the need to bone up on as much info as I can now that there is an older car in my driveway. Any help would be appreciated.
What you describe sounds pretty normal to me. The 250-6, especially in 1977, is not a speed demon above 55 mph. It should go faster than 55...it just takes it awhile to get going.
Well.. I do appreciate the input, but I'm pretty sure we can cross both suggestions off the list. I've had it on the interstate doing 80 with no problems at all. Now it would only get above 60... maybe... if going downhill. As far as the converter - not on this Maverick
x 2 on the tuning and I'm guessing it's most likely timing related. Of course.. a plugged fuel filter can often do the same thing too.
change fuel filter air filter plugs and wires then see how it acts you haven't said how long its been since they have been changed
certainly not trying to undermine your attempt to help out here.. but air filters usually don't suddenyl become clogged.. nor do plug gaps or plug wire resistance change that quickly. Whereas fuel filters can easily become "hardened" after sitting.. and/or clogged with rust on old cars like these.
lol.. it would take a whole family of mice to make the egine fall off that severely. I still give extra props since you always have such witty replies though.
Fuel filter is in. That ain't it. Gonna start checkin' stuff that would be an easy fix. Probably get the timing checked soon... also thinkin' maybe a vacuum issue as well. We'll figure it out eventually.
Have you changed anything recently? I always start with the free/easy stuff and work my way up if I can. I'm not sure if you have them or not, but I would invest in a timing light and vacuum gauge. They make diagnosing things way easier...even if you aren't sure what they are telling you, they ARE telling you something and you can go from there. Oh yeah, are you running points or electronic ignition?
Make sure the distibutor didn't move. Check the fuel filter you pulled off for trash from the tank or the sock coming apart. Check voltage at the coil and the Duraspark box. Check fuel pressure. Checking vacuum is a good suggestion and easy
Thanks for the input. Very much appreciated. Haven't changed anything on the car. We've only owned it for a couple of weeks. I have some stuff to look at now. Hopefully it will be an easy fix once it's figured out.
