283 stocker timing problems
 

will not start unless i set timing at 28- 30 degrees, i usually have timing set at 38-40, is my dist. off a little ?

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

When you say won't start what do you mean exactly,it hits but won't start like timing is retarded,or just cranks without hitting at all?
Mike Taylor 3601

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

starts up fine at 28-30 if i set the timing up to 38- 40 where i want it it turns over real hard, wont start at 38.

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

It seems to me that if you want to start it with that much fixed timing, you would want crank the motor with a button, then flip the ignition on.
Then again , maybe I'm behind the times and you just need a bigger, more expensive battery.

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

First double check the timing then start looking at bigger battery more /powerful starter--- wiring to/from both--- we routinely run 36-38* timing in a comp car with a standard mini starter and a small 12V battery no problems--- turns right over --- ya might try Mark's suggestion crank it over then turn ignition on see if that helps--FED 387

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

what has changed new motor, new cam, removed dist. ,or just checking timing

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

how do you set your timing??? @ what rpm??

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

What tooth flexplate?
Is your starter just a mini starter, or is it a gear reduction?
1 battery or 2?
12v or 16v?

Wade O

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Was the motor originally a crank hub and changed to damper? If so make sure you have the right one because there are different marks on the balancer. Had a similar problem on a street motor and used a timing tape to correct the errant marks after figured it out

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Terry, You might could try this device MSD has called a "Starter Saver". It electronically takes out either 10 or 20 crank degrees when cranking depending on if you cut a certain wire or not. It can make an engine spin over like nothin'. Go read about it on their web site, John Kissel

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Your first step should be to put the engine at TDC (with a degree wheel & stop) and check if the tab lines up with the balancer for TDC.............

Too many variables at this point to troubleshoot this hard crank & start problem....

Bob

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Nothing is different than last year, had motor out to change oil pan gasket that was leaking, have 2 batteries mini starter, all the same as last year, timing marks are right on with TDC. I will pull the dist. again and reset it maybe I am off somewhere.

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

When you had engine out if you put fresh coat of paint on it,take starter off and scrape paint off where starter mounts,seen that a few times.
Mike Taylor 3601

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Yes...Also the ground connection to the block.
I know it sounds basic but it happens...Trust me.

Re: 283 stocker timing problems
 

Just to let you know got it all fixed, battery showed a good charge all the time but when i went to start it was not enough, battery was 4 yrs old did not realize that, thanks for the comments.