Engine trouble, any thoughts

[20R]

Recently I've been having trouble with my 1980 toyota pick up. My truck does shimmie a lot when I'm at high speeds and I noticed one day after being on the highway that the firing was sloppy. I didn't know whether this was a feul system problem or a vacumme leak or a timing one.

Now my truck will die almost as soon as it starts and the idle is very rough and sometimes very weak. I wanted some opinions from the experts because I am stumped so far.

Basically the engine will crank and will ignite and after that or maybe a few rough turns it will die. Any thoughts on why this is. Having someone pour gasoline directly into my carb. while I run the engine will let me know whether the problem is fuel not being delivered. It may also be a vaccum leak but I would'nt know where. Or do you think my plugs are bad? I checked them and they look good to me.

Any thoughts would be apreciated.

[sonofmayhem]

the shimming could be alignment issues or tire balance is off. tune er' up. spark plugs, maybe some wires?, oil, check your carb, filters, all of that stuff

[Hermit]

The problems you stated are ones that could have dozens of causes. Plus without knowing any history on your truck its very hard to pin point any particular one thats causing the trouble you mentioned. Sonofmayhem is right. I would definitely start with the basics and give that yota a thorough and complete tune-up if it has'nt already been done. Change all needed ignition parts, filters, fluids and tweak the necessary adjustments.

As for the vibration, check your tires for cupping or choppy tread wear. Have you hit any deep pot holes or been off road recently? If so then Check to see if any wheel weights are missing or if you bent a rim. The easiest and cheapest thing to do is run it down to your local tire discount shop and have them balance up all four wheels. Tell them to let you know the condition of your wheels and tires. If you do need new tires then definitely have an alignment done when you install them so you get the maximum even tread wear for your money. You'll be glad you did.

Hope this helps! Keep us posted. I would like to know what you find out!

*HERMIT* The T-tech
"OH WHAT-A-FEELIN"