Engine shuts off when put into gear

1966 FORD MUSTANG
98,000 MILES • 3.3L • 6 CYL • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
GABE D.
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
So I have an inline six cylinder. Every time I put the car into gear it shuts off. It idles just fine but once I put it in reverse or drive it immediately shuts off. what could be causing this? I already tried adjusting the carburetor and filled the transmission with oil because it was really low.
Jan 25, 2018 at 5:49 AM
Avatar
MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
You need to see if you are losing ignition signal at the coil when it goes into gear, you can check this with a test light on the positive side of the coil. do this and report back your findings. Put the test light on the coil and it should stay on with the ignition on, if it goes off when the car is in gear, something is shorting out the ignition.
Jan 26, 2018 at 1:08 PM
Avatar
GABE D.
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Sorry for late response but the car all of a sudden stopped dying when put in gear so it runs good now I still checked the ignition coil and power is going through it but the car still shakes pretty hard when it's in idle could this be the carb?
Feb 4, 2018 at 7:11 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,676 POSTS
It could be but I would start with a compression test to see if we have motor.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

This way we don't chase our tail.

Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

Cheers, Ken
Feb 6, 2018 at 4:35 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle