sputtering!help!...please

[driftmunky]

i've had my 240Z for just over a week now and the engine started to sputter today....if i'm at a red light at idle the car will sometimes start to drop in revs and then just die...and when i accelerate it feels if the engine isn't running at it's full potential...it sputters as the revs go up and it feels as if i'm running on less than 6 cylinders...i also have trouble starting the car now whereas i always noticed that it used to start really easy before...easier than any car i've started before...i used to turn the ignition for like a 1/4 second and i'd let go and it would fire up....one problem i had since i purchased the car was that when i'm accelerating it usually wouldn't go pass 4000 rpm it would feel as if there wasn't enough gas going to the engine...

oh yeah..it's a l26 block with 71 carbs...if that makes any diff...

[kmack]

Have you checked your fuel filter yet?

[z_pyro]

you might also check your point gap in the distributor.

but it's probably a fault in the fuel delivery system, i.e. the pump(s), lines, filter, etc.

[driftmunky]

wheres the fuel filter?how do i check it?

[z_pyro]

there should be one in the engine bay. look for a little yellow/white cylinder in front of the passenger side wheelwell. I don't know how to check it...

do you have a mechanical pump, an electrical pump, or both?

[hmsports]

The fuel filter is on the passenger side of the engine bay quite near the front to the car. They are kind of transparent so you can do a visual check. If you see any grit or dirt in there replace it - they are cheap.

Also, if there is an electrical fuel pump at the rear of the car, take it out and check the inlet port. There is a sock-like bag that fits over the fuel pickup inside the fuel tank. Over time this can deteriorate and small particles will clog the electric fuel pump. You can usually pick these out with a small dental tool or something like it. It is a good idea to place an aftermarket filter between the fuel tank and the electric pump to keep from having to do this in the future.

Also check the banjo fittings on your floats. They have small internal screen filters that may get clogged. Carefully remove the fittings and inspect/wash these.

Hope that helps,

Rick

[driftmunky]

the guy i bought the car from helped me out with the car....he said sometimes grit gets stuck in the tube on the float in the float bowl...just took it out disconnected the hose and blew on the metal tube while at the same time moving the plastic float up and down...i already ordered a fuel filter too...thanks AGAIN to all you guys that replied and helped me out...it really saves me a lot of money from going to the mechanic... your guys help is much appreciated....