I have started a large number of flatheads over the last 30 years. I only had one
that wouldn't turn over and start, mice peed on the cam. I spray MMO down both
sides of the carb, in all plug holes and down in the oil fill pipe using a parts washing
gun. I started 8 or 9 last year that sat 10 or more years. Just about all needed a
fuel pump. I drained the gas tanks and flushed out with denatured alcohol, blew air through the pick up tube at the tank and the fuel line to the pump. I think I may
have had to clean one carb. The distributor points may get a little film and I
sprayed some contact cleaner in on some of the points. I put a paper towel over
the gas filler neck and with my mouth blow fuel up to the flex line. Had to replace
most flex lines with one made by Bob Shewman 1-610-933-6637 or
gadgiteer@aol.com It takes to much off the battery when cranking to get fuel.
Most won't start with gas because of a weak spark. I use starter fluid which will
fire on a weaker spark. I have someone inside to work the starter and gas. After
the engine starts turning on the starter I give it two shots of starter fluid and the
driver works the choke and gas pedal but not enough to flood it. I may have to
give it a few shots to keep it running. One it starts it burns the points clean.
Always have a fire ext on hand. G.M.
