I am just starting to restore my 1976 datsun 280z. It has 80,000 miles and all stock or at lest mostly all stock. When running it runs great but I have had an issue on 3 occasions. The first 2 times after getting gas the car would not start. I waited about 2 hrs and the car then started. The last time the car just stopped working as I was driving. Similar symptoms; however, never could get the car started.

The car sounds like it wants to start but is not getting gas. Not really sure.

I replaced the fuel filter while sitting on the side of the road waiting for the wrecker but did not help.

Bruce

Could be a leak in the fuel system. It should hold pressure when the car is turned off, or the fuel could boil, or if the fuel pump check valve is stuck open, the fuel could drain back a little. Sometimes heat also plays tricks with the electronic ignition but that's not too common. Next time it won't start, just check for spark. First things first, confirm fuel pressures running, and off.

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Edited July 30, 201113 yr by cygnusx1

ditto on checking the fuel pressure. You may have clogged fuel lines. If there is rust in the tank it can clog the fuel pump inlet. You may have a fuel pump that is close to dead. but it sounds like clogged lines.

Just to clarify things, I am a new mechanic. I am learning about working on cars with this car. Never have really been a car repair guy. With that said, there is a part attached to the tank that has a slight leak and I mean very slight. Could this keep the car from starting. Not really even sure what the part is but maybe a sensor. Also, is there a way to flush the fuel lines without causing more problems?

I think that the fuel pump if that is what its called is electronic. Could this be the problem and if so is it the small part in with the fuel injection system?

It depends if the leak is in the pressure lines or in the tank side of the lines. Either way, it can effect the car negatively and needs to be addressed asap.

Bruce, a slight leak anywhere isn't going to keep your car from starting, but stray gas can be dangerous! You should fix the leak.

There's any number of reasons your car might not be starting/running right. I'd start by just going over the entire engine bay, looking for vacuum leaks (e.g. bad vacuum lines) and bad electrical connections. Don't forget to see whether there are any cracks in the big rubber boots on the intake.