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1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Fat Fendered and Classic Ford Trucks

flathead stuck

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Old Mar 14, 2013 | 10:45 PM
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beckman
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flathead stuck

hi guys i have a 51 ford shortbox truck and the engine in it turned over fine but then when i towed it home and put it in the garage and tried to turn it over with the battery installed it wouldnt so i thought the starter was screwed so its out and it didnt make a difference it turns over a little by hand but then gets stuck and wont should i take the heads of and see what the valves look like
 
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Old Mar 14, 2013 | 10:55 PM
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We'll have to let some of the flathead guys weigh in, but I'd start by pulling the spark plugs, lubing the cylinders with the penetrating oil of your choice, and try using a wrench to turn it backwards.

A lot of the guys use ATF with solvent as a penetrating oil.

Dan
 
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Old Mar 14, 2013 | 11:35 PM
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Turning a little then stopping usually means stuck valves. Take off the intake and see if there is a lot of goo, mouse nests, beehives, etc. in the lifter valley. Watch the valves as you turn it to see which are stuck. Forcing it can damage lots of things (cam gear, lifters, etc.). I assume you've changed the oil already? Don't want to be pumping 10-yr-old molasses thru the engine.
 
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