Ford 302 running problem?

I have a 1987 Ford conversion van with a 302FI and auto OD tranny with some slight running problems, over she runs good but a few things. When cold starting the engine usually stalls once or twice before idling down, also when giving it gas to accelerate it will sometimes hesitate and octane knock before downshifting out of overdrive into drive. She only has 70,000 miles on her and has never seen a winter, any ideas would be sweet.





Thanks, Jim S.

Ford 302 running problem?
use a higher grade of fuel..... or You may just need to open it up to clean the carbon build up.
Reply:When`s the last time it had a good tune up? It`s 20 years old, ign parts will degrade from sitting as well as from use.Change the air and fuel filters. Put in some Lucas upper cyl lube/injector cleaner and take it out for a 1hr drive without the od on, Sitting for long periods can cause unusuall problems that can be cleared up with a good run
Reply:the stalling could be alot of things, but the knocking would be timing. you need to retard your timing a couple of degrees, or run better gas.
Reply:Could be a sensor issue. A good tech can give you a better prognosis. Anyway, when vehicle are store during winter or long periods of time, the fuel breaks down and gums up on your system. You could have a clogged filter. See if changing fuel filters and some fuel injector cleaner in the gas tank will do the trick. That will be my cheapest approach for now. Inspect your air filter too and see if any critters made a nest inside the air box. You might be surprise the stuff that might crawl during the winter looking for a warm spot. Might sound far fetch but does not hurt to do a quick check.