Advice Needed: Starting Troubles

H

Hunterspeedandkustoms

Junior Member
Hey Everyone,

I've had this Model A for only a short time. Usually I haven't had too much trouble getting it started, but recently I'm having problems.

Ignition on, GAV open, gas level or steering wheel set to 4 o'clock. First time I press the starter switch the starter spins up but then dies off after a few seconds feebly. Subsequent attempts I can't get the starter to spin up with any vigor. Eventually I can barely get it to turn over after the third or fourth attempt. Amps look to be low so I thought I might have an old battery in need of replacement but after pulling it I see it was manufactured in late 2017.

I tried replacing the coil. Maybe a bad starter? Any advice appreciated!

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Dead battery. Put a charger on it.

When you have run it in the past, your generator has probably not been putting out any or much charge, so you have depleted the battery with each start and not recharged it much (or at all). Eventually that leaves the battery dead.

Once you get it to start, check the charge rate.
 
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In addition to what has been suggested I would recommend to check the ground connection. Take out the bolt that holds the strap to the frame and sand or use a Dremel tool to clear out any rust and/or paint. It seems like a majority of electrical challenges with the A is faulty ground connection.
 
Grounds are very important!! I would clean all of the connections. Then I would run a separate ground from the transmission to the battery. I’ve done it and what a difference the starter woke right up!!
 
Jim/TX/GA said:
Dead battery. Put a charger on it.

When you have run it in the past, your generator has probably not been putting out any or much charge, so you have depleted the battery with each start and not recharged it much (or at all). Eventually that leaves the battery dead.

Once you get it to start, check the charge rate.
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x2.
Something in your charging system is probably the problem. Most likely the generator or the cut-out.
 
If this is your first Model A, problems make the best learning experiences. Check the simplest things first (spark and gas). Remove distributor body, turn on ignition and use screwdriver to open points (should see spark). No spark, check/charge battery and/or use some light sandpaper to clean points. Should now have a spark.

Time to hand-crank. If you have never done this ask for instructions (can be hurtful if done incorrectly).
 
pbishop said:
Time to hand-crank. If you have never done this ask for instructions (can be hurtful if done incorrectly).
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Hand-Cranking Tip,

DO NOT wrap your thumb around the handle UNLESS you want to break it. Cup the handle with an open palm like your getting a drink of water from your hand.

Regards
Bill
 
BillCNC said:
Hand-Cranking Tip,

DO NOT wrap your thumb around the handle UNLESS you want to break it. Cup the handle with an open palm like your getting a drink of water from your hand.

Regards
Bill
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And I use my left arm, not right arm like some videos, pulling up! Push starting is another option :-)
 
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