1972 Chevy Truck won't start

PMETCALF

MEMBER
1972 CHEVROLET TRUCK
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
20,000 MILES

Truck ran fine with no indication of problem. When outside temp. Dropped in teens one morning it wouldn't start. Would crank normally but not start. Found no spark. Replace HEI distributor and no start. Have replaced spark plugs, had starter and battery tested. All are good. Edelbrock 600cfm carb is 6 months old. Truck was completely restored 20000 miles ago so mechanically it's a new truck. I have no idea why it won't crank.

6 Replies

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

Welcome to the forum, is the coil in the cap or external? Did you check primary voltage to the coil, usually goes hot when you turn on the key? Your saying, it cranks good, but won't start?

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Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 AT 12:19 PM

PMETCALF

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4 POSTS

Coil is in the cap. 13.4 volts at the coil during cranking. When I say "cranks good" I mean it sounds "normal". I've checked for spark at each plug and their is a spark. I've also disconnected the fuel line and let it dump in a small container during cranking to see if I'm getting fue. During a 8-10 sec. Crank I get about a cup of fuel in the can.

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Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 AT 12:34 PM

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

When you operate the throttle, can you see gas squirt down the throttle-bore? Choke adjustment ok? Have you tried starter fluid, to see if it will try to start, when the problem occurs? There is a safety issue using starter fluid. The safety issue is your responsibility, not mine. I have heard of engine damage and people getting burned, trying to use starter fluid. If you use it, that is your responsibility.

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Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 AT 1:14 PM

PMETCALF

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4 POSTS

Checked the gas. It's squirting fine. Even tried using spray starter fluid, to no avail (used a 1-2 sec. Spray. No more. The stuff is dangerous).

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Tuesday, January 12th, 2010 AT 1:32 PM

PMETCALF

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4 POSTS

I did fail to mention the carb. Has electric choke. It is currently set 1 position to the right of the center position. Throttle plate is in the normally closed position since it is cold.