1987 Stanza intermittently dies

Sounds like a bad distributor..

My 88 stanza had a similar problem. Replaced distributor as oil got by and interfered with camshaft sensor inside distributor. Have had no problems since. Apparently a common problem with these cars.

Thanks for the tip.......I had wondered about that sensor, 70 test miles ago I popped the distributor cap open, removed the rotor, the distributor looked remarkably clean inside (not really a definitive view though) I sprayed it heavily with elec. parts cleaner, just in case 19 years of potential crud interfered with reading the plate, reassembled and so far it has ran okay.....but I have little confidence it will run tomorrow......at least now I may be looking in the right direction...thanks Rod

Thanks......If so is a used one a viable choice or should I look at new? Rod

You could hear a pin drop when the almighty "Rod & Betty Jo" addressed his adoring fans with these immortal words:

definitely buy new. This is a common problem with that type/vintage of car. A used one may have the same problem. It's not worth the gamble or hassle to even muck around with a used distributor.

Personally, I put used parts in two categories, those that are worth the risk and those that are not.

Not worth the risk: bulbs, belts, batteries, hoses, brakes, tires, distributors (and most other electrical, ignition parts).

Worth the risk: rebuilt transmissions, a/c components, major drive train parts, cosmetic interior and exterior parts, seats, etc.

I had a similar problem with a Plymouth. I ended up replacing the ignition modual to fix the problem.

I tend to agree as this is a comon probl;em with those cars. I normally recomend used for parts on items that aren't normally a problem for that model.