'73 1.7L won't hold idle Options

[rettigdw914]

Long time reader, first time poster here. If it wasn't for all of the great info on this site, I wouldn't have come half as far as I have on this project.

The problem I am having is at 60degF. ambient, cold engine, the car starts, jumps to 2000rpm for about 5seconds, then sputters and dies. It is very repeatable.

Does this sound like a vacuum leak or ignition problems or other?


Parts replaced/checked:
Rebuilt fuel pump(30psi solid),
Injectors flow tested and ultrasonically cleaned(4ml for 10sec crank)
Rebuilt MPS from Bret, also used another Bosch original.
Used two different ECMs
TPS calibrated
All electrical loads to ECU resistance checked per pbanders site.

All Vacuum lines replaced, not all German hose but has good fit
Injector seals replaced
Intake runner gaskets and hose to plenum replaced
Checked cork gasket on oil fill cap and is old but sealing

Rebuilt distributor
New points,condenser,cap,rotor,coil, wires,plugs(.024")
Dwell is 42deg., out of spec. but should still run. right?
Timing set to 27 deg bef. TDC, but I have been moving the dizzy around.
Valves checked, OK

I might try the carb cleaner trick to check for vacuum leaks but any other ideas are appreciated and welcomed.

Things not replaced are: TPS gasket, Cold start seal?, AAR(it is open, not sure if closes)

Thanks,
-Don

[rettigdw914]

Update: the Fuel pump does spin at key-on and i can see pressure build on the fuel pressure gage.

Also, the trigger points are plugged into the dizzy and open/close alternately as the dizzy rotates.

Rich- Thats good info. I set the dwell to 48 deg. now, starts quicker, still acts the same but does run a little longer

I am attaching a picture of my distributor position.

Regarding Fuel, I have checked flow during crank but not running, Good idea!, will try to do that tomorrow.
Electrically, I have verified the fuel pump circuit, the connections to all injectors with a meter, but your test will rule out intermittent connections, which are a pain in the... another good idea.

If that all passes, then your right, I'll have to re-check my connections. I know my feed line from the fuel tank is not blocked, but not sure about the return line.

Thanks again.
Don