Engine starting problems
Thread Starter
8th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Engine starting problems
I have a 62 with the 340 and I cannot get the thing to start. It was running ok before it set for the winter. It started running really rough and I initially thought it was a fuel problem. Replaced the fuel filter and that did not solve the problem. Next went to ignition and replaced it with a Petronix and thought the problem was solved, but it still did not run as well as before. Checked timing multiple times. Pulled the plugs several times to see if they were dry and not carboned. Thought it might be bad fuel so I completely drained the tank and put 91 oct in it. Checked to see it fuel pressure was good and got about 4lbs. Now I cannot get it to start. Any new suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Frustrated,
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,749
Likes: 776
From: Dadeville AL
These old engines need fuel, spark at the right time, and compression. You can look down the carb while you move the throttle to see fuel and whether the choke is working. As was mentioned above, you can try starting fluid. If it runs with the fluid but not without, it may be a fuel problem. .. For spark, you can pull a plug wire, place it near a ground and turn over the engine to see if the spark is strong and regular. For compression, use a compression gauge. That's about as far as my knowledge takes me.
Last edited by kellsdad; Aug 17, 2020 at 07:08 AM.
Thread Starter
8th Gear
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
I tried starter fluid and initially that worked. I have set and reset the auto choke several times to make sure that it was working. I have just noticed that the temp gauge is maxing out as soon as I turn the ignition on. Maybe that is grounding out somewhere and drawing enough current to prevent starting. I disconnected the wire to the temp sending unit and it makes no difference, still maxes out. So that is my next angle of attack.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 5,215
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From: NJ Hockey beer league
