1984 Trans Am Carb Backfire No Start

Suggested Repair

Check ignition timing and the timing chain. A sudden no-start with fuel and flames coming back through the carburetor often points to a jumped or failed timing chain or incorrect timing, so start diagnosis there.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1984 Trans Am with a 305 engine says the car suddenly died while climbing a hill at low speed and would not restart. It spits fuel from the carburetor and shoots flames from the carburetor when the accelerator is pressed. An expert suggests a timing problem, possibly a failed timing chain, and recommends starting by checking that area because backfiring through the carburetor commonly indicates timing is off.