Posted by Alan Bowes on January 27, 1999 at 13:17:13:
In Reply to: Won't start posted by Alan on January 26, 1999 at 17:48:57:
A few things to consider:
Since it hasn't started yet, I assume that you static-timed it.
First of all, when you static time the engine, make certain that the desired timing mark on the pulley is aligned with the pointer when the number one cylinder is on its COMPRESSION STROKE. Otherwise, you'll be 180 degrees off.
Second, which approach to static timing did you use? Did you happen to set the timing with a high-voltage timing light connected to the high-voltage spark plug lead to cylinder number one (or at least a spark off the high-voltage lead)? Or did you use a low-voltage lamp across the coil primary terminals to see when the points are opening? Both of these approaches are OK for an approximate start-up timing adjustment, but the latter approach (the low-voltage lamp) has a potential problem for the Power Wagon: On a PW, the distributor shaft can easily be installed 180 degrees off. This is VERY common. If it IS 180 degrees off, the points may still be opening at the right time and the low-voltage lamp will light up at the right time, but the spark will be delivered to the wrong cylinder. By static-timing the engine using a spark off the high-voltage lead to cylinder one (AND by making SURE that the desired timing mark on the pulley is aligned with the pointer when the number one cylinder is on is COMPRESSION STROKE), you can at least determine whether or not the distributor shaft is 180 degrees off.
After the engine starts, then you can fine-tune the spark to allow for the spark advance.
If your timing really is OK, then have a close look at the carb and fuel system. Depending on the type of carb on the engine, you may or may not be able to see a jet of fuel squirted into the carb throat (via the accelerator pump) when you open the throttle. If the accelerator pump is vacuum operated, you won't see anything because the engine isn't running and there's no vacuum to operate the pump.
As Henry mentioned, you could prime the carb with starting fluid or a teaspoon of fuel. However, if you do this too often, you'll wet the plugs (either with fuel or water) and short them out. This is particularly common with starting fluid, which evaporates rapidly and the cooling effects on the plug can cause moisture to condense on the plug when you crank the engine and pump the warmer outside air through the engine. Pull a plug out and make sure it's dry.
If the engine starts briefly when primed, then quits, it could indicate a fuel delivery or carb problem.
Hope that gives you a few ideas.