Michael Diehr wrote:
> Update:
>
> So far I've had about a half-dozen suggestions (some on-list, some
> off-list).
>
> 3 of you have suggested the Hall Effect Sensor.      It so happens
> that when I checked the cap & rotor, I did notice that the Hall
> Effect sensor connector seemed loose (didn't seem to fit very tightly
> in the distributor), and the electrical plug to the HE sensor didn't
> seem very tight either.
>
> Not a cheap part to replace on a whim, tho...   Any opinions on
> replacing the HE sensor alone, vs. replacing the entire distributor?
>
> I'm newly moved to the bay area (Oakland) -- can anyone recommend a
> local part shop that would have 'em in stock?  Dealer wants 5 days
> and $186 for the HE Sensor alone.    Vanagain and Busdepot have
> entire distributors (rebuilt) for around $150...

Before replacing pricey parts I'd look at the easy to check items, then
run the harness check in Bentley...neither of which will cost you $ but
take some time.

As always, browse around/listen for vacuum leaks...many are tough to
find.  Check under any hose clamps around rubber fittings as these can
hide a split in the rubber.

...a fuel filter is a couple bucks (I keep a couple on hand myself),
dropping the cat. conv. on my '80 is easy just to take a peak (but I'd
expect a slow decline in performance prior to stalling...but that
doesn't mean it couldn't be....just like a potato in the tailpipe).

...a couple hours work and you may end up replacing pricey parts anyway
but on the chance that you find something simple that can be fixed cheap
or free isn't it worth a little time?

--

Wil

-- http://www.charmfx.com/

"Never do anything against conscience even if the state demands it."
-- Albert Einstein