Start the unstartable 302
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New User
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 17
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From: Maple Hill, NC
Start the unstartable 302
I have a 74 F-100 with a 302 that will not start. I changed the cam and put a new set of heads on it and it no longer runs. Why? I've checked the timing 1000 times, I know I'm getting spark, I'm watching fuel dump in the carb, but it won't start. In most countries this engine will start, but mine isn't. Anyone got any ideas?
I'd appreciate the help.
I'd appreciate the help.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 581
Likes: 2
From: Somerset, Pa
Did you install the cam correctly (ie. do you have good compression on each cylender). (are your pushrods too long or too short??)
If you have compression and fuel going down the carb the only thing left is spark......
Are you using the correct fireing order, perhapes your new cam has a 351W/302HO firing order? Are you sure the timing is correct (you probaly want to kill me after asking that)? Did you put your thumb on the spark plug hole of cylender number one while turning it over by hand to feel the compression and use that as your TBC.
Good luck....hopefully your distributer is out 180 and that is all.
If you have compression and fuel going down the carb the only thing left is spark......
Are you using the correct fireing order, perhapes your new cam has a 351W/302HO firing order? Are you sure the timing is correct (you probaly want to kill me after asking that)? Did you put your thumb on the spark plug hole of cylender number one while turning it over by hand to feel the compression and use that as your TBC.
Good luck....hopefully your distributer is out 180 and that is all.
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New User
Joined: Mar 2005
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From: Maple Hill, NC
I'm sorry to make you type all those suggestions, but I've done it all. I've checked the firing order on the cam and it's for a 302, not a 351W. The distributer isn't in the wrong position because I've tried it both ways. I've got spark on the compression stroke vice the intake stroke. I've felt the compression in the cylinders with my fingers. I've done all I know to do and nothing is working. I'm hoping this has happened to someone before and they'll know what's going on.
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2000
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From: SD
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Joined: Mar 2005
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From: Maple Hill, NC
Here's my newest hunch, and I'm going to try this when I get home tonight. Perhaps I over-tightened my rockers. That might make the valves be open just enough to lower compression just enough to not draw the fuel in. It's a long shot, but that's all I've got to go on. I've already wondered if the cam was machined wrong since it can only go together one way. We'll see with tonight's idea...
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New User
Joined: Mar 2005
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From: Maple Hill, NC
After last night's work I think I've got some compression, but not enough. I was able to get it to fire on a couple cylinders, but not all, and not all the time. Any ideas on how to build compression? I've alreay soaked the cylinders with oil to help. I think I need a 24 volt system to get it spinning faster.
Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,232
Likes: 3
From: NE Texas
Have you MEASURED the compression? Did you degree the cam?
Typically when a fresh engine has low compression the problem is the camshaft is installed one tooth off. Another problem could be the valves are too tight. Did you prime the lifters with oil before installing them? Did you adjust the lifters properly?
Putting oil in the cylinders will not be the solution. If you do that, make sure you don't put too much and cause liquid lock.
Good luck,
Doc
Typically when a fresh engine has low compression the problem is the camshaft is installed one tooth off. Another problem could be the valves are too tight. Did you prime the lifters with oil before installing them? Did you adjust the lifters properly?
Putting oil in the cylinders will not be the solution. If you do that, make sure you don't put too much and cause liquid lock.
Good luck,
Doc