won't start - compression question

[andreas]

I have a '74 non tii that was running fine when I last drove it in October. It has been sitting in garage storage for the winter, but I've recently tried to start it and it turns over fine (battery, starter fine), but just cranks - forever. I know from reading here that ignition system and fuel pump are logical things to check, but I also know that the motor is pretty tired and compression tests from about 2000 miles ago were at about 120psi.

What I'm wondering is if a constant temperature difference between 60 degrees or so in the garage in October to recently when it has been mostly between 20-35 would prevent my car from starting given it's relatively poor compression? or is it highly likely to be something else?

Thanks in advance for your help

[SteveH]

My compression tester read 130 PSI over the summer. This engine has a 292 cam installed though, which makes the compression tester read lower. It fires right up in the cold. Once it lights off, it can barely stay alive and sometimes stalls. This is only on the colder days. I also don't have any form of choke to help the cold motor, hence the stalling.

What I'm trying to tell you is; It should start with 120 PSI.

[Smithdj]

I agree, you should be getting something. Try shooting some starter fluid (or something along those lines) down the throat of the carb. If you still dont get anything, start looking for spark.

Jay

[SteveH]

I agree, you should be getting something. Try shooting some starter fluid (or something along those lines) down the throat of the carb. If you still dont get anything, start looking for spark.

Jay

Yes, check for spark. If you have spark, check for fuel (wet spark plugs).

If it coughs and spits but doesn't fire up, you have spark and fuel. The timing could be off.

[Chris_B]

As the others have said, either you have a lack of adequate fuel or ignition. You didn't say you changed anything (e.g., timing), so fuel and ignition are the first two places to investigate.

The first general problem that happens when a car has been sitting for this period of time is that the carb bowl(s) will dry out. Presuming that your choke is adjusted and/or is being used properly, have a look down the primary carb throat after you have been turning your motor over long enough to pump some fuel up (give it several minutes). If dry, then you need to determine why fuel is not making it to the carb. Check the fuel filter. If fuel is present, then you will need to check your fuel pump and/or the filter at the carb inlet. Another possibility is a stuck needle valve or mal-adjusted float. Not sure why a float adjustment would change with a car that has not been used, but worth investigation. If you are not getting fuel at the filter or carb., post that.

If it is obvious that there is fuel is coming through, then look to the ignition system. To check for spark, use a plastic plug wire puller and hold one of the plug wires next to the block while you are turning the motor over. The spark should be strong and blue, making a snapping noise when it discharges. Note that it is possible that flooded (fouled) plugs will look wet; dry them off (use a solvent or heat) and try to start again. If your motor fires up, good on you. If it pops and stumbles, then you need to replace those plugs, even if they look new, good and dry. If you have no spark, then post that.

Good luck.

[andreas]

(nt)