Automotive Forums

I recently bought a 79 F100 that had been wrecked and sitting for about a year.  After replacing damaged body parts (the radiator and the exhaust system were almost new, but the muffler was busted, apparently from a very strong engine backfire) and the thermostat was frozen.  I changed the oil, replaced the muffler, replaced the air filter, and replaced the thermostat.  The thermostat gauge still does not work, but as far as I can tell I don't have an overheating problem since replacing the thermostat.

The truck starts and runs smoothly (but may be a little sluggish, it's hard to tell).  It also tends to shut down from time to time for no reason.  This happens both when sitting still and when driving down the road.  It always starts right back up as soon as I pull over and put it in PARK (it won't start in NEUTRAL).

I know I still need to get the engine tuned up and probably change the plugs and reset the timing, etc, but does anyone have any idea what might be causing the engine to stall based on what I have told you?  I've never had one do this, and I've owned several old Ford trucks.

Appreciate any advice, comments, or suggestions.  

The symptons sound similar to an electronic ignition module.
I've heard of people thinking they're running out of gas and the car stalls.  It immediately cranks back up and they're on their way.
If it were my truck, I would replace the electronic ignition module immediately, simply based upon your symptons.