The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop initial start problems

SUCCESS!!!

I went out this afternoon determined to get this thing working right. I had two concerns other than possible carb malfunction.

I tested the ignition and wasn't happy with the spark, so I replaced the condenser.

I also worried that somehow the alternator wiring, which is connected to the + terminal on the coil, might be messing things up once the alternator go tgoing, so I disconnected all the wires to and from the alternator. I did call the manufacturer of the alternator to make sure it was OK to run it with no hook ups, and they said "no problem".

So I checked all the fluids, filled my gas can with gas (I didn't want to run out halfway through the break in) and cranked it over.

Started right up, kept running, and I ran it for 20 minutes at 2000 RPM (or so, no tach). Oil everywhere, leaking from the valves and running all over. And the radiator was dribbling out hot water most of the time. But it ran.

I am guessing that of the two things I did the one that made a difference was the condenser. After things cool down and I recheck fluids I will try hooking up the alternator again and see if it still runs, just to (hopefully) rule that out.

But I can't express what a relief it was to get it going! I am now having a celebratory beer (or two).

Thanks to all who gave advice and encouragement!

Tim