Hot Hard Start Engine?

1976 CHEVROLET MALIBU

48,000 MILES • 5.0L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

MONTEC2

MEMBER
4 POSTS

My car listed above has a factory 305 V8 (2BBL) and has become hard to turn over when it's hot, and the timing has always been very advanced to 10 degrees and the car had plenty of power and was easy to start. Resetting the timing to factory 8 degrees before TDC solves the hard hot start issue but the car pops through the carb and bogs on acceleration at this setting. I'm amazed that this car could run so well for years and now is virtually undriveable.

Sep 22, 2024 at 6:02 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,233 POSTS

I would start with a compression test because the engine might be worn out which is why you need to give it so much timing which makes it hard to start. Or you could have a weak battery and or starter. Here is a guide to help with the compression test:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Please upload videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with.

Sep 23, 2024 at 2:55 AM

MONTEC2

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks for the advice. I think it might be the starter.

Sep 24, 2024 at 9:21 PM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,233 POSTS

Yep, it is common for the starter motor to go out, this guide can help you change it step by step:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

Sep 26, 2024 at 4:27 AM

MONTEC2

MEMBER
4 POSTS

It is a combo of starter and poor battery cable. Thx for the assistance!

Sep 27, 2024 at 10:05 PM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,233 POSTS

Thanks for letting us know, we are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime.

Sep 28, 2024 at 3:55 AM

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