disributor problem? loss of spark

[83Ranger]

So I have a 1983 ranger with 4x4 that was acting up not getting spark. First I tried a new coil, thatgot me nowhere. When i replaced the tfi module I found that the female end where the tfi plugs into the distributor was melted away, I got a new rebuilt distributor. After replacing all this I got her to run, as I was messing with the timing she died... And would not start again the rest of the day. So the next day I thought my brand new tfi module was overheating, I slapped a second tfi on then ran her till she died, slapped on the COLD tfi and it stillwouldent start. Same problem. At this point I was fed up and took it to a shop. Long story short they did everything I did and then said they coundent help me and recomended I take it to a Ford Dealership.I can'tpay thatmuch to tow it there then pay the rediculous $100/ hr. All thishappensabouta month ago. It's just sitting now. It still starts and will run anywhere from 2-15 mins then not start agian. Takes anywhere from 30 mins to 16 hours for it to want to start again. Really random. Seems to die faster if I'm giving it gas running it at higher rpms, but like I said its really random.

I just found out I don't have the stock distributor on it. It is a biggeronewith a snap on cap. It's a motorcraft E47E-12131-AA I think the stock one is a motorcraft E43E-12131-AB

Could this be my problem? I don't know what to do with it.

 

[slmann]

going to bump this so we can get you someone that might have an answer.

 

[Fellro]

What motor is it? The cap only distributes the spark, the distributor both tells the computer when to fire and puts the spark in the right place. There unfortunately are so many things it could be that it will be difficult to know for certain. Have you validated that it is spark trouble, or could it be loss of fuel?

 

[smokey]

By the part number it seems to be a 2.8.
I would guess a electrical problem if out melted the tfi connector off it.
If you don't have emissions testing in your area just dura spark it or just drop a distributor with points out if a old pinto.
Rut