'77 idles and dies

'77 Continental sputters and shakes when in drive and stopped - then dies. Sometimes it dies just when slowing down.

Basically starts right up except when cold.

One thing is that there seems to be WAY too much exhaust under the hood - like there's a hose broken or something. So much so you can see the gas fumes when you're stopped at a red light. Also seems like it's seeping in.

Any ideas?

Know any trust worthy mechanics in San Diego?

I appreciate all responses.

Might be a clogged catalytic converter

'77 Continental ....

Wow! I was driving a 77 for a few years.. Loved that massive car.
460cu.in was under the hood. Giant four barrel carb., 7 to 9 mpg...

Anyway, I can't say what kind of Mechanic's are in your neck of the woods.

By the tone of your post, you don't seem like you're the type that wants to open the hood and have a look around.

Replace all the rotting rubber hoses, have your exhust system checked for flow / blockage, rebuild that big-ass carb, toss in a new set of spark plugs, wires, cap/rotor, check the fuelcap vents, check/replace air filter, PCV valve.

If it still stalls out after you get those things right, post back.