Will not start after sitting for eight years?

I have a few pictures that might help.

Hi,

The first thing I need you to try is this: See if the engine starts for a couple of seconds and then stalls if you use starting fluid. If it does, then we know it's a fuel-related issue. If it doesn't change, then check for spark. Here is a link explaining how to check:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Try this and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

So, my vehicle listed above Eddie Bauer - V8 - 5.0L 302ci GAS MFI vin N - 2 valve OHV has been having trouble starting and It has not started in around 10 years and I have already replaced the high pressure fuel pump, the fuel pump relay, the spark plugs, the spark plug cables, and the air filter But it still won't start for some reason I know it has spark because It does backfire out of the carburetor when cranking it with starter fluid and I know it has compression because I tested it myself. I know starter fluid should allow it to run for a minute and then shut off, but it won't even do that. I recently replaced the high-pressure fuel pump that is an In line fuel pump and I know it should be getting fuel but I just don't understand why it won't start still.

Hi,

If it backfires, it could be timing related. However, that would also affect compression. What pressures did you find when tested?

Also, with the key in the run position, check each fuel injector for power. Each injector will have a red wire going to it. (See pic below). Confirm there is power present using a test light or voltmeter.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pic below.

It has fuel pressure and it has power to the injector.

However, now when it turns over it spins almost all the way then stops and just keeps doing that like there is something keeping it from spinning all the way.

Oh, and it also squirted fuel all over my arm when i checked the fuel pressure, so that's a good thing.

Hi,

If possible, could you record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? Also, pull a couple of spark plugs and check their conditions.

Let me know.

Joe

I did pretty much replaced the spark plugs already, so they are new and also it seems to be doing better.

however, now it's not getting spark like it was before.

Hi,

Have you checked the pick-up in the distributor? I know you mentioned the distributor cap was checked, but make sure the stator and armature are not corroded or rusted. See pic 1 below

Let me know.

Joe

I have had even more problems with it now and it's like it's not igniting the gas in the engine, but it then just ignites the starter fluid like its nothing, but it won't start with gas and its starting to get on my nerves.

Like i just don't know what else is wrong with it.
I might just have to scrap it because I'm starting to get the feeling it's just a waste of time if I'm being honest.

First thing that you do is check the fuel, {smell the filler tube} if it smells like varnish, I would pull the tank down and clean it. check the fuel pump and screen, before you put things back together disconnect the fuel lines and use a little air and blow out the lines. Fuel that sits in the lines turns bad. I used throttle body cleaner spraying it in the lines. helps get the bad gas and any clogs loose. Once you get the lines blown out clean the throttle body out. When you have everything cleaned out, reattach the lines and put the fuel tank back in. You should be able to hear the fuel pump when you turn the ignition on. With the fuel line a little loose crank it over to see if it is pumping fuel. If so, reconnect the line and try with a little starting fluid to get it started. I had a car that sat for 21 years in a garage and with the fuel half full I had to take and clean all the lines and tank. It worked.

Hello there Joe, I am following up on a request to post a video of it cranking and I have a video that i forgot about it. here it is:

I also have a more recent video of it if you would like.

In the first video, the timing sounds to far advanced. Have you checked or adjusted timing?

Joe

I don't know if you saw the second video but i have not checked the timing chain at all because it's not exactly easily accessible.

However, in the second video it does sound better i guess, but I had to just remove the fuel lines where they attached to the gas tank because it started leaking in 5 spots. so, i am using a large 6.1-gallon gas can for it currently and when i try starter fluid it just ignites, and shoots flames out of the carburetor and i really don't understand it. I just would love to use my Bronco as my first vehicle but i don't know if it's even possible at this point because i feel like i have done more harm than good even though i know what I'm doing.

Hi,

If you are getting fire from the carburetor when you use starting fluid, I think we have either a stuck valve or the timing is off.

Was anything done with the timing or distributor? Also, I just heard video 2. It starts out the same. Let me know if anything was done with the distributor or timing in any way.

Let me know.

Joe

Well, I have done nothing with timing and the distributor, but i plan on removing the timing chain to replace it. I also intend on replacing the distributor itself, but i just don't know what else to do at this point.

When you were cranking the engine, I heard what sounded like a knock when the starter would slow and strain to keep turning. I would do two things. First, I would remove the valve covers to confirm there are no stuck valves. If they are good, I would perform a compression test.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

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

Let me know.

Joe

How would I check for stuck valves?

And where even are the valve covers?

Hi,

The valve cover is at the top of the engine. It is where the oil fill cap is located. See pic below for a picture of one.

Joe