i have an 86 cj 6 cylinder automatic. the jeep runs and idles good. when coming to a stop traveling forward it almost dies and sometimes it does die. if i travel in reverse and hit the brakes it runs fine. what could be causing this?

When it stalls is it hard to restart like it's flooded? An improper float setting can cause that problem in some carbs. Too much fuel in the bowl which causes a flooding condition when brakes are applied. Is it a stock carb? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Is the idle set too low? Many carbs have a "biscuit" as an idle stop that prevents sudden lowering of the idle to stop that particular problem...Have you got one of those? If so it is adjustable..
Big JIm <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

after it stalls it starts right up without touching the pedal. it does have an apperataus that should push against the throttle, it has a vacuum line and a wire plug connected to it. it seems to work when i rev it up in the shop, but i cant tell while im driving. if it is the float thats causing my problem should i adjust it up or down?

I would leave the float ALONE for a while. Adjust the idle screw to make it idle a bit faster...
The thingy you have that controls the idle is where to start. Adjust it to control the decrease in engine speed by making it slow the speed all by itself. Prolly a turn or two is all you will need.
The letric wire prolly goes to the a/c compressor and it sets the idle when the compressor is engaged.
Big Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

i have already idled it up. a bit to much i think. it hits hard when i drop it in gear. as for the wire i dont know where it goes, it came from the factory without a/c and doesnt have it now.

I've got a different approach for you, change your fuel filter, get two of them while you are at the parts house. Betsy's did this a while back after putting some fuel system cleaner in it, would run fine in the shop or even just idling down the street, but when ya mash the skinny then let go, it would stall. She has two filters, she added a single one with two outputs on it prior to these in addition. They aren't but a couple bucks, and although BigJim may tend to reuse them with his tight budget, it never hurts to put a fresh one on. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

Now that's funny Short pump.. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
As a matter of true fact I betcha I advise installing a NEW fuel filter more than ANYONE on this forum. For myself I install a new filter on all my rides every 30K if they need it or not.
The hint of a clogged filter is usually at speed and not at idle. The carbed Jeep filters are not as prone to stoppage as the fuelies are.
Big JIm <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

Yep, what BJ said, also, since it doesn't seem flooded when you restart I doubt it's a float problem. I assume you have the stock Computer adjusted Carter BBD carb. Perhaps it is in need of maintenance. HERE is an article you may find of interest. Something you can do short of a full rebuild. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

thanks for the link