Engine died and then hard to start

[rocky]

It was very warm yesterday afternoon, in the mid 90's. I had been driving the car for the better part of an hour on the streets, lots of start and stop traffic. The car was running very well but at a traffic light the car began idling roughly and when I gave it a bit of gas, it died. The engine would crank but would not start. It did start after about five minutes. It appeared that the engine was not getting any fuel. The engine temp was normal and everything else appeared normal, as well. Just the sudden rough idle and then when I gave it a little gas, it died after a little pop from the carb I believe. It ran fine today although it was warmer. I've had the car for about two months now and it has been running great, with the exception of this problem. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks for all of your advice and help.

Greg
'77 Spider
'74 AR GTV

[So Cal Mark]

could have been a vapor lock, what is your fuel delivery system like?

[rocky]

Thanks, Mark. The fuel delivery system is in good working order, all the fuel lines are in good shape, the fuel pump is good and all the filters were recently replaced. The idle is a little low after the engine warms up. Maybe I'll do a little adjusting of the idle today. It doesn't usually get this warm here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Is there any solution to preventing vapor lock in the future? Thanks again, Mark.

Greg
'77 Spider
'74 AR GTV

[narfire]

If it happens again, perhaps try cracking the gas cap... any sucking sound?

[So Cal Mark]

I'm assuming you still have the stock mechanical pump? With the phenolic spacer between the block and pump? Is the return line from the carb to tank still intact? One way to cure vapor lock is to constantly recirculate fuel, so that the pump is cooled. The return line was originally equipped with a small check valve. I've seen those fail and not allow fuel to pass. Low pressure will also increase the likelihood of vapor lock (that's one reason FI cars are supposed to hold pressure at rest)

[rocky]

Thanks, all, for the help. I will check the fuel pump this week and the return line. It is stock. Thanks again for all of your help.

Greg
'77 Spider
'74 AR GTV