Hello.
The other day I tried to start my 85 TA. The starter turned then stopped. I I held the key trying to start it smoke started coming from underneather the hood. This has done that since I swapped in the 350 a couple times a week. But this time after I got it started I could smell plastic melting all the way home and the engine would rev higher before shifting into the next gear. When I got home I lifted the hood and saw that some wire looms had melted against the firewall and against the back of the engine. The tran shift linkage melted exposing the wires. Now when I put it into drive the transmission jumps horribly and makes a loud thud.
Sorry for the long message but if anyone has any helpful hints or ideas or similar experiences to share I thank you.
Ironically, the hood doesn't close properly now.

 

Trans,

Welcome Aboard!

Without a doubt, you need to repair that wiring first. Whether it is the cause of the problem or a result of it, it needs attention.

It is possible that the wiring is part of the TCC lockup circuit, and that even though the transmission valving shouldn't allow it at low speeds, the torque converter is trying to lock when you put the transmission in gear. This would be a loud noise and big jerk, at the least. I wouldn;t try to drive it until the wiring is repaired.

 

Thanks for the advice. I'm not that great with wiring but I have a Haynes manual. I'll give it a shot. I'd like to ask about the TCC lockup cicuit. What does TCC stand for and what does it do?
It seems like the starter can't turn over, like it's not strong enough. Maybe time for a new one.
Later