Chevrolet Repair: transmission, chevy custom, delux


Question
I have a 1987 Chevy Custom Delux II 3/4 ton pick-up. The engine is a 5.7 liter (350) with a 2 barrel carb and it runs great. The transmission is an automatic. My problem is when I try to shift out of park, going either into reverse or drive, the engine wants to stall. I basically have to powerbrake to keep the engine running. It does not have any problem driving once I am no longer stopped. If I come to a stop sign, I again have to power brake to keep the engine running. I jacked up the back of the truck so the wheels were off the ground and ran the transmission through every gear, i.e., 1st, 2nd, drive, and reverse, and everything worked properly. If I apply full brake the engine wants to quit (again I have to powerbrake). Once I shift into a gear with the truck up everything seems fine. It does not seem to be a problem with the engine idle being to low. It is more like some type of sensor is not sending a signal that allows the engine to make the proper adjustment when shifting. If you have any suggestions they would be greatly appreciated.

Thank You,
Jim Litfin

Answer
Hi Jim,  What you need is a new/reman distributor. There is a magnet on the mainshaft that will get weak and at low rpms there isn't enough voltage coming from the dist to keep it running. Get a new one and install it.

   Let me know how you make out          Mark