[rivethead]

My 1977 280Z revs and idles fine. When I engage the clutch and start to move, the engine starts to sputter and die. I've already changed the fuel filter and I'm starting to think it may be the fuel pressure regulator. Any z owners out there have this happen before? What should I check next?

 

[johnb510]

I would start at the tps (throttle position sensor). The fuel pressure regulator seldom goes bad. Do you have any vacuum leaks? Check for cracks in the afm boots, all rubber hoses, ect. Also perform the tests on the afm.
When did this problem arise? Was it happening before you did any repairs on the car?
Get a factory service manual! I cannot stress that enough. The info you need is in the engine fuel section. Forget about the Haynes/Chiltons/Clymer... not worth a toss and a total waste of time and money. You can get a cd-rom version of the manual from www.ideal-z.com. On their page your will see a link for Courtsey Nissan, from who you will order the manual. While on their site, look at their video section and pick up a copy of the Ztherapy FI video. It too is a must have.

 

[johnb510]

First start at the tps (throttle position sensor), afm (air flow meter). The tests are in the factory service manual (also known as the fsm). BTW, the fuel pressure reg seldom goes bad...
You can get a cd-rom version of the fsm from www.ideal-z.com. On the ideal-z site will be a link for Courtsey Nissan (where you actually order the manual). While on the Courtsey site, look at their videos and get a copy of Ztherapys FI video... it too is a must have.
Oh, don't bother with the Haynes/Chiltons/Clymer "manuals"... they are not worth a toss and a total waste of time and money.

 

[rivethead]

Thanks for the info johnb5410. I have the factory service manual. Any more advice as to what I should check out?

 

[johnb510]

yep, run the tests on the tps and afm... make sure the pins in the tps are not bent. full throttle should not come on until about 34 deg of throttle movement. you may want to check your plugs, see if they are fouled. If they are nasty, clean them and check the gap. Also look for any obivous air leaks.

 

[john cross]

I had my pressure regulator go. Basically, one day I could not start the car. I heard a hissing sound from the FPR. THe fuel was leaking through the seal inside and into the intake manifold!! I replaced it and yes, the car ran much better. however, i do not think that is your problem. Thefuel pressure regulator is important to maintain the proper pressure, but you sound like you are running lean. Or it could be an electrical problem, like these guys are saying. Either way, their recommendations are accurate. I am not a mechanic, but I have done what they are sayign and it has been invaluabvle....