I just replaced a blown out 302 with a used 302 I had laying around and I have set my timing correctly. But my truck will still not start, I have both tanks full andthe sound it makes when i crank it sounds like there is not eneogh power to start it. So far have checked everything possiable and am running out of ideas. My truck is a 1983 F-150 ext cab with a 302 4-barrel on it. Any ideas or help would be appreciated. I haven't swapped put an engine in my truck in 20 years so I am rusty at doing this, thanks.

 

check the battery cables to make sure they are in good working order. besure to spend extra time on the ground connections. you need to have on run directly from the battery to the motor close to the front engine mount. are sure the motor isnt seized up. rust in the bores can do exactly what you are describing. also, are you sure the timing is right? there is two TDC one for exhaust, and one for intake. if you have it 180 off it can also do this. also, if it is an automatic, and you didnt get the converter on the pump correctly, it can also do what you are describing. as the converter will be seized up on the pump.

 

dashashopdog hit some good checkpoints, I would see if you can turn it with a wrench on the crank. If you can't and you have the auto w/overdrive my money is on that you don't have the torque convertor seated all the way into the tranny. Been there done that.

 

Yes I have the auto overdrive tranny. We got everything seated right and thetranny will turn over . I can turn engine with a pipe wrench thats how I set the timing on it.
I will go back over and check all the wiring though, I think I am prolly missing a ground woire somewhere, all the parts on this truck are the orignal parts except for a few aftermarket items so I will look for loose wires first and then work from there

 

ok got that wire grounded now just have to wait for battery to charge back up. Now I can tell that I am not getting spark so will look at distributor and ignition

 

ok checked everything, there was a disconnected ground wire got that hooked up. Now this weekend I will get a new battery ( the old one will not hold a charge) and some new ignition parts. Thanks for the help, appreciate it.