Glad to hear you got it runnin' 
No start issue on 1985 Vette, please help!
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 10,665
Likes: 56
No start issue on 1985 Vette, please help!
HI all,
I recently purchased an 85 vette with only 49k miles from an auction. It was marked a run/drive, though I bid remotely so I had it delivered.
When it arrived, the battery was dead (as in sulfated condition; open cell) and wouldn't even try to crank with a jump. I replaced the battery and now have the car cranking properly. However, it still won't start. I have sprayed starting fluid directly into the throttle body to see if it was fuel delivery, but it didn't help at all.
I'm assuming it's something with spark? What would you guys recommend replacing first to attempt to get it started? The photo below shows how I bid on it, and how I received it. It's likely it sat outside with no cover over the engine bay for a month or longer. All mechanical systems are intact, not even any frame damage.
I'll be heading to the auto store in a few hours and would appreciate any diagnostic help that anyone can spare!
Thanks,
Josh
I recently purchased an 85 vette with only 49k miles from an auction. It was marked a run/drive, though I bid remotely so I had it delivered.
When it arrived, the battery was dead (as in sulfated condition; open cell) and wouldn't even try to crank with a jump. I replaced the battery and now have the car cranking properly. However, it still won't start. I have sprayed starting fluid directly into the throttle body to see if it was fuel delivery, but it didn't help at all.
I'm assuming it's something with spark? What would you guys recommend replacing first to attempt to get it started? The photo below shows how I bid on it, and how I received it. It's likely it sat outside with no cover over the engine bay for a month or longer. All mechanical systems are intact, not even any frame damage.
I'll be heading to the auto store in a few hours and would appreciate any diagnostic help that anyone can spare!
Thanks,
Josh
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 6,130
Likes: 2
From: seattle WA
Get a timing light first so you can check for spark, I'd also recommend you get a Digital Voltage ohm meter and a fuel pressure guage. Those tools will cost less than $100. but very necessary. Also get yourself a Factory service manual(s) year specific, that'll save you alot of $$$$$$$, you can find them on ebay, check the FS section here.Forget the Haynes or Chiltons.
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 11,470
Likes: 764
Get a timing light first so you can check for spark, I'd also recommend you get a Digital Voltage ohm meter and a fuel pressure guage. Those tools will cost less than $100. but very necessary. Also get yourself a Factory service manual(s) year specific, that'll save you alot of $$$$$$$, you can find them on ebay, check the FS section here.Forget the Haynes or Chiltons.
- start with timing first and then fuel pressure. i'd start with making sure the distributor is indexed correctly, all ignition components are in good condition, and everything is configured correctly, i.e., #1 sparkplug wire is going to #1 plug, and the rotor is pointing to #1 distributor terminal, etc. . it all pretty much basic stuff, but, but sometimes its the simple stuff. ...are you getting any spark at all? a FSM is a must - period! good luck - keep us informed. your problem can be a learning lesson for all of us. 
& 
Thread Starter
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 10,665
Likes: 56
Keeps the water out of the distributor, loL!
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