HELP! my SHO dies while running!

[fst100]

OK its not my car, but it's my dad's SHO. first some background info:
1995 ATX SHO
about 110K miles on motor and tranny with a slipping clutch

just recently my dad tells me that the car would splutter and die at random times when he drives. most of the time and luckily it does this within a few blocks away from my house. our local mechanic cant figure it out either. i dont know much on ford especially on the 3.2L yamaha engine (more of a GM guy). i think it has to do with the ignition setup, but again i dont know my way around the motor. anyone have any ideas on what it might be or what i should check? also if there are any links/pics please let em know. THANKS!

[fst100]

after a bit of researching i may take a shot and find out what and where the crank position sensor is(CPS) anyone know the layout and/or instructions on locating and installing a new one on please?

[wrightz28]

Kind of a cross over person myself from the General. However, all makes being equal, when was the last "tune-up"? I would start with the basics here, plugs wires, fitlers (fuel & air). If applicable, cap & rotor, pcv.

While doing the ignition system over, I would pay attentnion to spark condition. Especially before and after the work is donw. Could be a indicator to something more in the primary igntion circuit.

[shorod]

When the car dies, does it fail to restart right away and require some cool-down period?

The CKP sensor is a common issue on the SHO V6, especially if you have a leaking water pump. The sensor is located on just above the crankshaft, and if you decide to replace it, you may as well do the water pump and timing belt at the same time. I think the timing belt interval for the ATX is 100k anyway.

However, you really should determine what is causing the car to not restart (assuming it doesn't restart right away). If spark is the issue, the CKP and ignition module are suspects. If fuel is the issue, then consider the fuel pump and fuel filter. It sounds like heat may be a factor in your dad's car, so fuel pump and ignition module should be high on your list. Due to the location of the CKP, you'll want to exhaust the other options before tackling that.

-Rod

[fst100]

thanks shorod. do you have any idea where's the fuel filter is on the SHO? thats prolly something i can do for my dad. as for the others things, the CKP and the ignition module i can let me dad take it and let my local mechanic know of the possibilities. thanks shorod.

[fst100]

i believe it does what you say. it'll drive for a bit then when the car slows down it'll splutter and just stall. i have to take the car out myself to verify exactly what is going on. sorry for not being too precise.

[shorod]

Sounds quite similar to what one would experience with a failing fuel pump. When you are at the store picking up the fuel filter, you may want to purchase or borrow a fuel guage. The next time it fails to start, install the fuel guage on the fuel rail using the Ford adapter which should be included with the guage, cycle the key on and off about 3 times, with about 5 seconds between cycles. Check the fuel pressure and if it is low, the fuel pump is probably the issue (assuming you installed the new filter at this point).

I don't recall for sure if the filter on my '93 SHO ATX was located under the car or in the engine compartment. I think it was located on the firewall in the engine compartment.

I won't be around home much this evening, but I can check the service manual tomorrow for the location.

-Rod

[shorod]

Per the service manual, the filter is located near the fuel tank on the underside of the right rear frame rail. It is located downstream of the electric fuel pump module and is mounted on the underbody.

-Rod