The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 question

I just purchased a 54 235 on ebay. PO says will turn over but won't start, has new starter, newer fuel pump and carb kit. Where should i start with trying to fire it up. Dit maybe? points?

Since it turns over, why don't you do a compression and leak down test? And sure, you can check the points, no telling what condition they're in.

thanks, that is on my list of things to try. I was just curios as to wheather or not there were any items that i might not have thought about.

Ya gotta have compression, like HRD says, and fuel and a spark.
You can check for spark by removing a spark plug and holding the threaded part against a good ground while someone cranks the engine (I like to use insulated pliers for this as you can get a pretty good jolt otherwise). You can check for fuel by pulling the air cleaner and looking down into the carb while you goose the throttle. Gas should squirt into the venturi. You should be able to see and smell it. Doing these things should get you pointed in the right direction.

Does anyone know the approx weight of a complete 1954 235

I picked up the 235. looks pretty good. found mouse food in the intake but none anywhere else in the engine. should I try to just start it and run or do a rebuild. Still a ways from puuting it in the truck and no tranny yet.

Check your compression or do a leak down test. If all cylinders check out ok then I say RUN IT! If it's in overall good condition then there's nothing wrong with running it, just change the fluids and go.