Kevin!
( I will start like a machanic
It could many things
.
But before you do anything make sure you have paid all the speed camera tickets. Maybe they have come with a new enforcement method
?
It certainly does not look mechanical , but I would not rule it our yet.
You say:
?fuel delivery method of deliver - fail - deliver - fail - deliver - fail at the rate of 2 of these cycles per second..ish.?
I assume your Rev counter works finer all the time while the kangaroo effect takes place ?)
Of the top of my head I would say: fuel pump intermitting due to failure of fuel filter fouled but I would go through a whole of checks to make sure all is OK. This is not lost time as it to check all these elements before new season and you will always find something to fix. I is better done in a garage, than on the road.
Kangaroo effect sudden momentary loss of engine operation is most likely due to one of two reasons :
a/ electrical problem ( interruption of all (?) plugs firing)
b/ fuel problem (interruption of fuel delivery by fuel pump)
I would start with basics:
- check the battery connection and ground connection !!!
Test the engine idling:
- run up the RPM and look for misfiring effect
- uneven work ?
- plugs firing OK ? (see how they look and
change them anyway! )
- coil delivering current ?
- plug cables and connections to coil OK ?
- rotor OK ?
- points OK (are you running electronic or point ignition) ?
- all electrical connections to the distributor and under the distributor cap ( in non electronic.
- change the condenser (in non electronic)
I expect all to be fine, but must be done to make sure we are not missing something.
Next :
Fuel:
- change the fuel filter ! ( or
just take it off).
- check electrical connections to the fuel pump
- check if the pump is working correctly (do you also have the mechanical pump, or just the electric). Electric pump failures are quite common and totally unpredictable. ( Listen for any unusual noise with engine on ignition but not running. Bad pump may give a strange whistling sound).
I would suggest that you actually install two and have them switchable. If all this does not work disconnect any alarm system you might have on your car and throw it away ! I have found them to fail after 5-10 years of operation and give totally unpredictable efferct ( from can?t start to fail obove certain RPM , engine go dead suddenly and can/cannot be restarted until the engine is cold, etc.
Let us know what it was as it can (will?
) happen to all of us one day.