Need help with 56 223

[Anonymous]

I'm trying to restore a 56 F100 with a 223 and I'm hoping someone on this board can offer me some helpful advice. The vehicle has been sitting unused for over 20 years, but was running fine when it was parked. Since I started to restore it I have had the fuel tank steam cleaned, replaced the fuel pump and fuel filter and applied a carb kit to the carb. The engine will turn over and over and over but will never actually start. Fuel is getting at least as far as the carb, you can see fuel stain (wet) in the throat of the carb. After sitting for a while the float bowl will devolp a drop of fuel on the bottom of it, I can't figure out where this leak is coming from. I'm hoping someone can offer me advice on what I need to do to get this engine to start. Thanks

 

[addo]

Nice project vehicle!

Have you verified it is getting good spark? That may be part of the starting issue. Also try compression testing the motor - there may be a valve or two stuck open.

The drop of fuel under your carb is probably resulting from a dried-out gasket. Working the throttle by hand should see a small but obvious squirt of fuel into the carb throat, from the accelerator pump jet. If this isn't present, the carb might benefit from a careful dismantling and clean.

Cheers, Adam.

 

[Daves55Courier]

Engine wont start
possibility of three problems: Fuel, ignition or compression
I think you have ruled out fuel. I would check ignition next.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the replies. What would be the best way to check for spark?

 

[CoupeBoy]

Thanks for the replies. What would be the best way to check for spark?

Have a friend hold a spare spark plug that is attached to a plug wire and crank it over. If s/he screams and calls you names then you have spark. If not then you need to look into the ignition system.

Alternative (not recommended). Parts stores sell spark testers that look like spark plugs made out of glass. They accept a normal spark plug wire and usually have a clip on the other end to hook it onto a good ground. Then you can watch the light show. (boring)

-ron

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks, I'll try one of those ideas.

 

[bobenhotep]

i spray a small amunt of ether or propane in the intake. its a redneck thing to do , but i0f you cant ignite ether or propane, you aint got spark!

 

[Anonymous]

i spray a small amunt of ether or propane in the intake. its a redneck thing to do , but i0f you cant ignite ether or propane, you aint got spark!

Safer than ether, use WD40. It'll start as easy as ether, without washing the cylinder walls down. Then you can spray your door hinges with it.