Can’t figure out why 73 Newport won’t start.

[Lordofthepings777]

Having an issue with my 1973 Newport. It seems like it’s wanting to start, but it isn’t.

Basically, every time I try to crank it, it cranks but really slow.

So far I’ve changed the oil, changed the starter, changed the battery (also tried jumping off other power sources/ batteries), and yesterday I changed the fuel pump+fuel filter and filled the tank with gas.

It cranked a good bit, but very slow as usual, and then after awhile of trying it slowed down and only cranked for a second after every time I turned the key. (I assume it flooded the carb after many attempts).

I can’t see what the issue is. I know I’m getting spark from the distributor (that’s new), and the spark plugs are new.

My buddies dad said it could be the timing could be causing it to crank slow.

I’ve also been told maybe I pull the spark plugs and put some 10W30 oil in there since gas can wash down the piston walls and make it crank slow, but I’m just not sure at this point

Anybody experienced know anything about this or what issues I might be facing?

I can get photos if anybody needs them soon.

 

[Boydsdodge]

If your battery is good and strong and the main power cable ends are clean and corrosion free at the battery and starter ends. I would say your starter motor is packing it in, tired, calling it quits, etc...

 

[Big_John]

My buddies dad said it could be the timing could be causing it to crank slow.

That would be my first thought too.

the distributor (that’s new)

Especially because of this. How did you (or whoever) set the timing after changing the distributor?

Check the firing order too. 18436572.

Turn the distributor a little bit clockwise and try it. Better yet, have the hold down just loose enough that you can turn the distributor while someone else cranks it.

 

[Lordofthepings777]

That would be my first thought too.


Especially because of this. How did you (or whoever) set the timing after changing the distributor?

Check the firing order too. 18436572.

Turn the distributor a little bit clockwise and try it. Better yet, have the hold down just loose enough that you can turn the distributor while someone else cranks it.

I bought it from a guy who did the distributor and spark plugs. All the rest of the work I mentioned I did myself. Not sure about timing or how he did it, but maybe it’s worth a once over if it’s a possible issue.

Checked firing order, and it’s good so I assumed the rest of his work was good- but we all know how assuming goes on used vehicles…

 

[Big_John]

I bought it from a guy who did the distributor and spark plugs. All the rest of the work I mentioned I did myself. Not sure about timing or how he did it, but maybe it’s worth a once over if it’s a possible issue.

Checked firing order, and it’s good so I assumed the rest of his work was good- but we all know how assuming goes on used vehicles…

You might want to take it one step farther and pull the #1 plug (driver side). Crank the engine with your thumb over the hole and when the compression comes up, look down at the timing marks. Now bring the engine to where the mark on the balancer aligns with the zero timing mark. A 1 1/4" socket with breaker bar on the balancer bolt makes it much easier than bumping the starter.

Pull the cap and see if it aligns with the #1 plug wire. Remember the distributor turns counterclockwise and recheck the firing order.

It's important to get the engine so #1 is on the compression stroke. You can put a Mopar distributor in 180° out very easily.

 

[CBODY67]

Other than the things mentioned above, I'm still wondering about the "slow cranking" situation. Plus when the situation first started?

As for the distributor, I'm presuming it is an electronic unit?

Just curious,
CBODY67

 

[Mark Kevin Weaver]

That slow crank is a starter issue most likely. Have you checked if you're getting the full voltage at the starter when engaged?

 

[65Port]

Have you touched the wires after cranking to see if they are warm? That might be an indication of bad connection to ground or to battery. Pull the plugs and crank it to see what happens. Let the cylinders clear and see what happens. If it still cranks slow I'd say you have an electrical problem in the starting circuit. Let us know where you're at- I see there is another thread on this. Looks like a wiring fiasco in there.

 

[jmustian]

Other than the things mentioned above, I'm still wondering about the "slow cranking" situation. Plus when the situation first started?

As for the distributor, I'm presuming it is an electronic unit?

Just curious,
CBODY67

Out of time