Engine runs rough and backfires after warm-up

Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.

wheelie-schizes

Junior Member
Joined
Apr 22, 2025
Posts
1
Reaction score
0
Location
Germany Göppingen
First Name
Paul
Truck Year
1991
Truck Model
V 3500
Engine Size
454 7,4L
My 454 TBI starts and idles low, but after about 2 minutes (once it warms up), it starts backfiring through the air filter and won’t take throttle.

Here’s what I’ve done trying to fix it:
- Replaced spark plugs, wires, ignition coil
- New distributor (installed by someone else)
- New fuel injectors and fuel pressure regulator
- Also found the EGR valve was loose and leaking — I resealed and tightened it

Timing is set to around 4° BTDC, but it’s hard to adjust properly because it seems to shift on its own.
There’s no vacuum advance on the distributor, so I assume timing is electronically controlled.

**Do I need to disconnect the timing advance wire when setting base timing?**
Any input or ideas are appreciated!
 

Ricko1966

Full Access Member
Joined
Apr 11, 2017
Posts
6,406
Reaction score
10,916
Location
kansas
First Name
Rick
Truck Year
1975
Truck Model
c20
Engine Size
350
My 454 TBI starts and idles low, but after about 2 minutes (once it warms up), it starts backfiring through the air filter and won’t take throttle.

Here’s what I’ve done trying to fix it:
- Replaced spark plugs, wires, ignition coil
- New distributor (installed by someone else)
- New fuel injectors and fuel pressure regulator
- Also found the EGR valve was loose and leaking — I resealed and tightened it

Timing is set to around 4° BTDC, but it’s hard to adjust properly because it seems to shift on its own.
There’s no vacuum advance on the distributor, so I assume timing is electronically controlled.

**Do I need to disconnect the timing advance wire when setting base timing?**
Any input or ideas are appreciated!
Yes you need to disconnect the set timing connector. When,how and why did it start backfiring? Have you actually checked fuel pressure?
 

Ricko1966

Full Access Member
Joined
Apr 11, 2017
Posts
6,406
Reaction score
10,916
Location
kansas
First Name
Rick
Truck Year
1975
Truck Model
c20
Engine Size
350
Okay does it run okay cold? Cold it's in open loop. Warm it's in closed loop,I'd start by testing my sensors.
 

Latest posts

Forum statistics

Threads
45,522
Posts
985,402
Members
38,600
Latest member
staverironbrand
Top