Just bought a 1914 need some help

[Chuck Kuntz]

Well, I always wanted a brass T so bought a 1914 touring that was restored in the 60's and stored since 1970. Now, it needs re-restored. I am trying to get it started and have a problem with the timer I think. The coils all work ok, but number 3 plug fires continuously when I crank it. I assume the timer has a short in it. The other 3 plugs fire in the correct order. Is this a common problem and how do I correct it other than just replace the timer. Any advice on how to get this car running would be appreciated.

 

[dlshady]

I would start by looking at the wire that goes from the #3 coil to the timer. It sounds like it's shorting to ground somewhere. If you don't see anything obvious I'd disconnect both ends of it and then check for continuity to ground with an ohm meter. If that doesn't check out then pull the timer off and check to see if there's something inside shorting the #3 contact to the case.

 

[Willie in Houston]

Chuck, if you are talking about a roller timer, the number 2 and 4 positions short out the most often. They are the bottom two and small pieces of iron filings from wear on the timer find their way into the holes of those two positions and short them out to the case and cause continious firing.
Looking at the timer from the front, #3 should be the top position to your right. (drivers side here in the US)