[DeTomaso] Engine run anomalie

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

1)- the Pantera tank is vented through a 1/4" dia line that goes to the 
charcoal cannister, then from the cannister to the air cleaner. This is far 
larger than the 040"-dia hole normally found in a vented cap. If you detect a 
vacuum in the tank when opening the stock non-vented cap, this is a sign that 
one or more of the vent lnes are plugged. Temporarily disconnect the vent 
line from the tank; if that fixes te problem, you have an area to explore 
further. You could also just leave the gas cap off. Note- leaving the line 
disconnected very long will splash gas out when the tank is full, and produce a 
fuel odor inside the cabin.

2)- you say 'the car won't start' but in what manner? A hot, stone-stock 
engine often won't turn over fast enough to start unless the ground wire is in 
excellent shape from frame to engine or transaxle. Some Panteras STILL 
don't have this ground. I also recommend a gear-drive mini-starter in place of 
the heavy problematic stocker.

3)- the '73-up Pantera fuel tank outlet has a brass final-filter screen on 
the end of the fuel-out line attached to the sender. While I've not seen one 
plugged up with varnish as happens with '71-72s , its possible. Try 
removing the filter-screen from the out-line; you've got far more filtering 
capability with your two in-line systems than most cars need anyway. I'd leave the 
in-tank screen off.

FWIW, a charcoal cannister is normally only effective for 2-3 years before 
the charcoal saturates. Then, it's simply a can partially full of old fuel. 
They are not serviceable. New assemblies are available from Ford, (and may 
require adaption) but I simply run the tank vent line directly to the air 
cleaner, bypassing a bunch of extra hoses and the cannister. 

4)- finally, are we sure its fuel-related? Try installing a new coil. I've 
had coils that cracked a wire inside the coil case. When things get hot, the 
wire ends separate, shutting down the ignition. When the coil cools a 
little, the wire ends touch again and the engine starts normally. I've also heard 
of intermittent MSDs although they're rare. Normally, they work or 
completely fail. Good luck- J Deryke


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