Stumped by no start...

H

hangarb7

Senior Member
Helping a friend with a motor that didn't run for 30 years. He got it started on two occasions but the last one, it puddered down to a halt and we now cannot get it to even puff. I reset the timing which now gives a big smart spark, checked the plugs, fuel flow, and compression.... aha! 1-2-3 show 52-55lbs. Number 4 shows a big nothing. But even with a squirt of fuel into the carb or into the number one cylinder, it doesn't even puff. He did replace the head gasket but that seems a little unlikely doesn't it, with only maybe 20 minutes on the motor? And, would an engine not start if ONE cylinder has no compression? Signed, Stumped in Export, PA
 
It should start fine on three cylinders. Just check the basics fuel, spark, valve and spark timing. If all are correct it will start.
 
Try starter fluid in the carb and see what happens. If he had the manifolds off, there may be a big leak.
 
Figure out the "0" on #4. Meanwhile think about not firing but save it for later. Also make sure that the screw holding the distributor cam is really holding the cam and can't slip out of time.
 
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