Pinto Car Club of America

Hello everyone, i need some advice.
I have an '80 wagon. 4cyl, automatic. Just messed up another ignition/computer box. I think.  Back in April I burned out the  original one.  The car starts then 10 seconds later dies. Then starts and a puff of white smoke comes up from under the hood right where the module is fastened to the fender, then dies.  Then starts up and runs for a while, but idles very rough.  The lfirst time this happened (in April) it wouldn't re start.  This time it will restart, however I am not sure how long it will continue to run.  My question is...has anyone else had this problem?? How did you fix it?  Can I get en after-market unit Such as one from Mallory? and be able to use it?  Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
  If I posted this question in the wrong place, my apologies,  Thanks, Jonzwagon

I never had that problem, but if I did, I would look for a shorted or bad wire(s), and I would change the dissy when I installed the new spark box.

I would not rule out the alt., the reg, or the igintion switch.

Is there eveidence of damaged or repaired wiring?


Bill