I'm thinking a very plugged up fuel filter, has it ever been changed?
catylatic converter is plugged
You are losing spark or fuel.
same problem with our old marquis. catylatic (sp?) converter is plugged remove it
A few seconds as it dies in agony.
If this is a carbureted engine, it could be a problem with the fuel draining back out of the bowls, or perhaps the choke not operating properly.
if it starts and runs for just a few seconds then dies it is generally a carburetor issue. clean or replace the carb and that should solve your issue.
Is there gas in it? if it runs for a few seconds make sure there is fuel in it
Check the fuel filter and the fuel pump pressure. The problem sounds like the fuel pressure is too low to keep the engine running.
1) fueltank empty 2) fuel line turned off 3) fuel line plugged
just press R for few seconds
I would change your fuel filter
There is not carb. Try changing the spark plugs and leads and try cleaning out the injectors and the fuel pump. Clean out the cam shaft with a cloth, and change the oil, change the thermostat, and tell me what else you did.