280z running rich

[Mightyjustice]

I just bought a 78 280z that I have been having troubles with. Periodically while I am driving it it doesn't run while I am giving it gas. Idles fine, but as soon as I put it under load it dies. Release the gas and it runs fine again.

Just recently I went through the factory service manual and started checking all the sensors. I cleaned off a bunch of grounds, unplugged and plugged in the control box, and fixed what I thought was a bad ground on the air regulator.

Now it runs REALLY rich. White smoke out the exhaust and smell of gas. But I don't think I did anything. I'm really confused.

[Tyrone]

what carbs do you have? White smoke is usually an indication of running to lean, or your valve seals are leaking oil, burning inside the combustion chamber.

[sblake01]

Tyrone, he wouldn't have carbs being a US market 78. Obviously, the second problem (running really rich) would most likely come from something that was done during your cleaning/replacing of grounds. What you initially described could be anything from a bad temperature sensor, a bad fuel filter, a clog somewhere in the fuel system, etc. Did you test the fuel pressrue at any point?

[Mightyjustice]

No, on my list of things to do is check the fuel pressure. Money is tight right now and I am waiting till I can afford the tool.

But now, things are worse. I turn the key and it sound like the starter motor hits a brick wall. It just goes *THUNK*. I don't get it.

[Mightyjustice]

..it was a bad connection at the computer. A couple of pins had bent over when I plugged it back in...whoops. I wanted to thank everyone who helped, especially since all of my problems are not solved yet and I believe I will be back.

-Brad