[TR] Tryin g to get car to start after a slow two year rebuild.

[Jeff Scarbrough]

At 02:14 PM 2/22/2009, sujit roy wrote:
>I'm trying to start my Stag, but I have no signs that it wants to start.  I
>got a few pops last night, but nothing today.
>
>WIll two old year gasoline prevent my car from starting?

Very possible, especially if you are in a damp climate.

>Battery fully charged.
>I have fuel getting into the LH carb as I had to take the float cover off to
>fix a leak. I'm not sure abo the RH carb. Other than checking the float bowl
>fro fuel how sure can I be that fuel is getting into the cylinders.

Spray some WD40 into the carb throat, then crank as before...it's 
like ether, but with extra lubrication.

>I have the timing approximately statically set to 12 degree before tdc. I
>have Luminition and a spark is present.  How off can the timing before it
>won't start at all?

If it's close, it will try to start, or at least pop on a consistent basis.

I'd change the fuel, and then make sure fresh fuel is available at the carb.

I have been known to rig an alternative fuel source by attaching a 
length of fuel hose to the pump inlet and sticking the other end in a 
gas can set on a stool (so the pump needn't draw uphill too 
much).  Drain the fuel bowls, then let them refill with fresh 
gas.  Be sure to let the starter cool for a minute or two after each 
thirty seconds of cranking.  Or, if you're in Saskatchewan, just open 
the garage door and crank away.

Of course, there is a definite risk of fire when attempting 
foolishness like this, so be aware - you do have a properly rated 
fire extinguisher to hand when you're doing this, right?


Jeff Scarbrough      75 TR6 x 1, 76 1500 x 2, 78 1500 x 1, 80 1500 x 0.5
http://www.fishplate.org/vehicles/
Corrosion Acres, Georgia         #354