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#99882 03/15/2007 1:21 AM
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 4
P
Junior Member
Junior Member
P Offline
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 4
I am new to this truck. It was my grandpas truck and I finally got it from my cousin who has had it for the last 18 years. Anyway, He said that it was running a couple of years ago, but I bought a new battery, put new points in it and I try to start it, but it seems really slow trying to start. Still the 6 volt system.Is it supposed to turn over real slow like that or is it supposed to turn over pretty fast? I couldnt get it started....any suggestions??


1951 Chevrolet 3600
#99883 03/15/2007 1:46 AM
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 26
L
Wrench Fetcher
Wrench Fetcher
L Offline
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 26
6 volt turns "slow" compared to a 12 volt system.

It is plenty if all is in good order. One of the first things most people do to try to start a vehicle that has been sitting is move the distributor and mess up the ignition timing. Check the timing and dwell, make sure you are getting spark through the plugs, and make sure fresh fuel is getting to the carb.

#99884 03/15/2007 4:44 AM
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 7,438
Extreme Gabster
Extreme Gabster
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 7,438
Welcome to the Stovebolt. I'm moving your post to the Electric Bay to make it easier for others to "search" for later.

Grounds are what causes most problems with 6V systems. Make sure the starter is grounded to the frame. Remove and clean your cables. If someone has put skinny 12V cables on it remove them and get some 6V cables. You will probably have to go to a tractor store to get them.

Also do a search for "6V cables".


"It's just a phase. He'll grow out of it." Mama, 1964

1956 Chevy 1/2-ton 3100
1953 Chevy 6100 "The Yard dog"
1954 GMC Suburban Now with a new proud owner.
#99885 03/15/2007 5:08 AM
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 1,029
B
Member
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Posts: 1,029
Pull the plugs, run some ATF into each cylinder and crank the engine over for a few minutes with the plugs out; could be rusted cylinder walls.

#99886 03/16/2007 1:00 AM
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Posts: 4
P
Junior Member
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OK, thanks guys, I will try that. I did put some Penetrating oil in cylinders, but maybe not enough. I will try both.


1951 Chevrolet 3600
#99887 03/17/2007 1:30 PM
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Posts: 4
P
Junior Member
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OK, I have discovered that my battery cables get really hot when I try to start it. I still will not turn over fast at all. Im thinking a starter problem. If so where do I get a rebuild kit for it?


1951 Chevrolet 3600
#99888 03/17/2007 4:49 PM
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 29,269
Bubba - Curmudgeon
Bubba - Curmudgeon
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 29,269
Warm cables mean high current. This could be the result of a tight engine, worn-out starter, or inadequate gauge battery cables. If the battery cables were changed (even 18 years ago), they are most likely 4 gauge 12v cables. You should have a minimum 2 gauge cable, and 0 or 00 (1/0 or 2/0) gauge is even better (both positive and ground cables).

You will need these cables eventually, so replacing them is not a waste (about @$25). If the new cables get warm and/or the starter continues to be weak, then get a starter ($100-$150)

Good luck - let us know what you do and what happens.

Tim

PS: Here is a fellow who sells starter and genenerator rebuild kits; he also rebuilds them:

WEITZEL'S D.C. ELECTRIC
516 US Highway 250 South
Norwalk, OH 44857
419-668-2844
866-840-2844
[email protected]

If you send off your starter for a rebuild, use a Priority Mail flat-rate box. Costs about $8 to ship up to 70 lbs anywhere in continental USA.

#99889 03/17/2007 4:51 PM
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 221
J
Cruising in the Passing Lane
Cruising in the Passing Lane
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Posts: 221
paws51!

I think Cletis has it right! Check those battery cables. They sound like they are probably for 12v system. Compare the cables at a 'tractor'/farm supply store and you'll most likely find that's where your problem is.
Good luck. Let us know how you make out.
Geo.

#99890 03/18/2007 5:15 PM
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 327
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Wrench Fetcher
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Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 327
I had the same problem I replaced the cables and had the starter rebuilt for good measure cranks real good now. Good investment should last for a while now...


Moderated by  Jon G, Rusty Rod 

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