The Ford Barn

NH David · 08-16-2018, 05:04 AM

I have a 1931 model a pickup. It started great but didn't sound like it was running right at idle or when I would drive it. (It sounded like it was idling high and was running rich) After reading some threads I decided to retime the engine. I bought a hand crank and a test light and followed the steps in Les Andrew's book and was very happy with the results. I cleaned and regapped all of the points (rotor points were close to 0.04) and replaced the plugs and plug "wires".
It was a little hard to start the first time but sounded a lot better. I went to drive it last night and can't get it to start. Is it possible that "improving the timing" is causing starting problem?
While I was timing the car I think I left the ignition on with the points closed because my battery was dead (down to 4 V) and the coil was warm. Any chance I damaged my coil?
I also noticed my throttle rod that runs to the distributor was bent, not allowing the engine to reach a fully retarded spark position. I straightened it. Any chance this is contributing?

08-16-2018, 05:04 AM	#1
NH David Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2017 Posts: 6	1931 Model A pickup hard to start I have a 1931 model a pickup. It started great but didn't sound like it was running right at idle or when I would drive it. (It sounded like it was idling high and was running rich) After reading some threads I decided to retime the engine. I bought a hand crank and a test light and followed the steps in Les Andrew's book and was very happy with the results. I cleaned and regapped all of the points (rotor points were close to 0.04) and replaced the plugs and plug "wires". It was a little hard to start the first time but sounded a lot better. I went to drive it last night and can't get it to start. Is it possible that "improving the timing" is causing starting problem? While I was timing the car I think I left the ignition on with the points closed because my battery was dead (down to 4 V) and the coil was warm. Any chance I damaged my coil? I also noticed my throttle rod that runs to the distributor was bent, not allowing the engine to reach a fully retarded spark position. I straightened it. Any chance this is contributing?