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We had to replace the head gasket on our 73 390. When its cold it starts fine but after a short distance when you shut it off it doesn't want to start. It sounds like a dead battery. After trying 2 or 3 times (which sometimes works) The battery cables get really HOT, in fact the neg starts to melt. After it gets cold it starts fine then back to the same routine. Can anyone help before I take it to the shop. Thanks, James
For wires to heat up and "melt" it takes a bunch of resistance. This is in the form of dirty connections and or old primary wires. Seen this happen many times on older trucks. Change out your wires from the battery to the starter relay and also from the relay to the starter. Should end your problems. Make sure your connections are tight.
I find it interesting the NEGATIVE cable starts to melt, usually all the resistance is on the POSITIVE side.
I agree with the previous post, check your timing, also when you re-assembled the engine you made sure the pushrods went back to their previous positions right? Otherwise you'll end up with tight and loose valves.