I've got a 1985 Extra Cab 4x4 pickup with a 22re. It's got 280,000 miles and has been great but all of a sudded it started having this annoying electrical problem. It will just studder and then the motor dies. I'll turn it over and over but it won't start. I got out and checked for spark but nothing was coming from the coil. I replaced the coil with an MSD unit but it still has the same problem. After a while (times vary) it will start again but it seems like it's starting to run rougher and that the electrical problem is increasing in frequency. I've taken it to the dealer and several shops and no answers. I've even replaced the computer but still no luck. I'm tired of dumping money into this problem. If you guys have any suggestions I'd appreciate it greatly!

Thanks,

Eric

Could be a ground problem, check all the ground connections between the engine and the frame and battery. Don't just look at the wires, pull them off, wire brush the terminals and check the condition of the wire under the insulation.

"Sounds" like a signal generator problem. It's inside the distributor (pick up coil)-aftermarket part available btw.
These can work off and on like you are describing.
PS Don't crank your motor for prolonged periods, over 5 secs. at a time for example, that can destroy the ignitor (300+ bucks). It WILL fire instantly when you lick the problem. I bet, your old coil is just fine too. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/oink.gif" alt="" />

I'd check the grounds or even do what I did, add another ground cable running from the point that the battery negative bolts to the body, all the way down to one of the starter mount bolts. It cost about $8.00 and perked up everything in the electrical system of my '81.