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    Reversal of fortune

    Chrysler Chrysler Advice
    WHEN I turn off the ignition in my 1980 Chrysler Sigma the motor starts to go in a reverse manner for three to five seconds. I am at a loss as to fixing it, and I have not found it in the car manual either. I have had the timing set. I have overhauled the carburettor. But nothing works. I would be happy if you know about motors that go in reverse. I have, in the end, done the timing myself and nothing has changed.
    Answered by CarsGuide
    20 January 2005
    CarsGuide team

    I DOUBT very much that the engine actually runs in the reverse direction, but what you are hearing is run-on or dieseling where the engine keeps running for a second or two before stopping. Early emission engines with carburettors are prone to the problem for a number of reasons, including camshaft overlap and carburettor idle settings. The problem is made worse if the carburettor throttle blade doesn't shut down enough at idle and there's enough airflow to continue pulling fuel through the carby. It can mean enough fuel is fed into the engine to keep it running even if the ignition is switched off and the spark plugs are not firing. There will be enough heat in the cylinders to ignite the mixture, which is why it's called dieseling. To eliminate this problem some engines were fitted with anti-dieseling valves to shut off the fuel when the ignition was turned off. Check your engine and make sure the idle settings are correct. If it has an anti-dieseling valve, make sure it's working.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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