1963 Ford Thunderbird Engine Won't Turn Over

FORD THUNDERBIRD
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JIMN0421
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  • 1 POST
Gentleman, I have a 1963 Ford Thunderbird that I recently inherited from my Dad. It has been garaged for 18 years and only 92,000 miles..I went to start it and the engine turns over very slowly a few times and then stops turning over..I can turn the engine by hand with a pull handle..It has a new 800 amp battery and solenoid.(relay). Cables are in good condition..I take the plugs out and spin it with no compression..But, when the plugs go back in, it just won't spin...I am stumped... :( Thank you, Jim Neel, Jr.
Mar 11, 2006 at 1:09 PM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
Bet it is a beauty.
How about a voltage drop test on the cables. Measure the voltage at the starter. Check the grounds. And then have the starter bench tested.

Good luck and let us know. :)
Mar 11, 2006 at 2:06 PM
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Suggested Repair

Perform a voltage drop test on the battery cables, measure voltage at the starter while cranking, check the grounds, and have the starter bench tested.

Conversation Summary

A 1963 Ford Thunderbird stored for 18 years cranks very slowly a few times and then stops, even with a new battery, solenoid, and cables that appear sound. It can be turned by hand and spins freely with the spark plugs removed, but will not spin once the plugs are reinstalled. The expert recommended a cable voltage drop test, measuring voltage at the starter, checking the grounds, and bench testing the starter.

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