The Ford Barn

69a · 04-18-2026, 06:31 PM

Get a vacuum gauge, it's a handy tool to have. It should come with instructions and how to diagnose problems.
It sounds like a major leak if it is vacuum.
Start by disconnecting wiper vacuum line, you can hook up the vacuum gauge there. If the problem persists, disconnect the vacuum advance line and plug it.
Try giving it some choke when you are trying to drive it. That will richen the mixture going to the engine and give support to the vacuum leak idea.
Check the gaskets on either side of the throttle casting and the intake to block gasket.
You can spray some easy start spray, penetrating spray, or propane near where you suspect the leak to be. If vacuum gauge reads higher then you are close to the leak.

04-18-2026, 06:31 PM	#4
69a Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2020 Posts: 325	Re: Running, idling, not driving Get a vacuum gauge, it's a handy tool to have. It should come with instructions and how to diagnose problems. It sounds like a major leak if it is vacuum. Start by disconnecting wiper vacuum line, you can hook up the vacuum gauge there. If the problem persists, disconnect the vacuum advance line and plug it. Try giving it some choke when you are trying to drive it. That will richen the mixture going to the engine and give support to the vacuum leak idea. Check the gaskets on either side of the throttle casting and the intake to block gasket. You can spray some easy start spray, penetrating spray, or propane near where you suspect the leak to be. If vacuum gauge reads higher then you are close to the leak.