Some problems

[Zypher]

O.K to start I am pretty new to engine stuff so I want to learn so here we go. I don't know if it is a huge problem but when I got my mustang it really didn't idle too rough and too loud but as I drive it more it is idling pretty rough and getting a louder and with weird sounds coming from the engine. What should I do there? Get it looked at or is there anything I might be able to do. Second, I'm guessing I probably need a new battery and alternator to get more power. But when I also drive I have headlights on, radio on and some times wipers, but suddenly when I drive she will just flat out die on me when I stop. So it sounds like I should get a better alternator and battery would I be right in thinking that?

 

[addo]

Is it an auto?

If so, then the kerb idle is set too low for prevailing conditions. It may well be that other factors are influencing this (engine health, carburettor settings, ignition timing, for example), but a short answer is that idle speed's just a little slow.

 

[myplague5]

Will it start right back up or is the batt dead?

 

[Zypher]

Nah it is a manual 3 speed. And yes the car does start right back up.

 

[myplague5]

Shouldn't be the batt or alternator unles the wires are loose. Well, that was my bit of advice on this. Sorry I couldn't be of any actual help man.
Sean

 

[page62]

It sounds like you have an carburetor or ignition system problem. It could just need a basic tune-up and carb adjustment. (Remember, these old cars need tuning up MUCH more frequently that modern vehicles.) Does your car have points, or has it been converted to electronic ignition?

In terms of getting more noisy, you may have an exhaust leak. This is fairly common, too.

 

[Zypher]

I'll get her a tune up and how would I check for an exhaust leak? Hopefully that would make life a lot better the best thing I have done for the comfort is taking her in and balancing her and checking the air pressure... nothing like working at discount tire I guess...

 

[page62]

I use a cardboard tube pressed against my ear. While the engine is running, I move the end of the tube around the exhaust manifold and pipe flange area. If it's not there, I move to other areas. This allows me to quickly pinpoint any noise(s). Be sure to stay away from the radiator fan and belts!!!

I think most folks around here would rather that you learn about how to do a tune up yourself, as opposed to "getting" one. Tuning up these cars is rapidly becoming a lost art, but it's not all that hard. Do you have a basic service manual, like a Chilton's book?

 

[Zypher]

Yeah I'll got the car with a lot of books and I've learned a lot I'll go from there and try to tune it up myself if I screw anything up I'll ask a few people I know and come to you guys. Thanks for the help.

 

[Bort62]

Yeah I'll got the car with a lot of books and I've learned a lot I'll go from there and try to tune it up myself if I screw anything up I'll ask a few people I know and come to you guys. Thanks for the help.

Just don't give up It will be extremely frustrating at times...

 

[gtm1086]

Start up with a good tune up. New points and condenser, distributor cap, spark plug wires, spark plugs, fuel filter and air cleaner. Set your idle speed to 700 rpm and set your timing to 12Degrees BTDC

 

[page62]

Yeah I'll got the car with a lot of books and I've learned a lot I'll go from there and try to tune it up myself if I screw anything up I'll ask a few people I know and come to you guys. Thanks for the help.

That's why we're here!

 

[60s Refugee]

By the way.....just what kind of "weird"noises is it making? Tapping? Squealing? Banging? Ratteling? Did it di it on accelleration under load? It is hard to diagnose a problem if you can'thear the symptoms. How long did you drive it before it started going down hill? The guys are right, it may be nothing more than a tune up...but...it could be ignition ping, bearings, rods, who knows.

Tell us about those weird noises my friend, it will really help.

Harry

 

[Zypher]

So I looked around have yet to tune her up yet but, she is giving off a gray smoke and sounds like a v8ish sound from the back so something is sure wrong right now. The block is also shaking more than normal which is strange. So I thought I'd tell you all first before I have some people look at it that are more experienced than I am.

 

[page62]

Check your coolant. Are you low, by any chance? :