1963 cj will not start

[steve409]

I went out before a big snowstorm and started my jeep like always no problem----left it run till warm and shut it off and waited for the storm----after the storm it would not start---turns over really good has spark and tried starting fluid down the carb nothing--not even a pop---just spins over really good ---need some help here- 1963 straight four

 

[Torxhead]

From your description, I would think timing. You could hook up a timing light and turn the starter over to see if the timing marks line up. Check point gap also. When new guys try to get back on they usually have issues getting back in so good luck with that. Welcome to the forum.

 

[jdcaples]

I went out before a big snowstorm and started my jeep like always no problem----left it run till warm and shut it off and waited for the storm----after the storm it would not start---turns over really good has spark and tried starting fluid down the carb nothing--not even a pop---just spins over really good ---need some help here- 1963 straight four

Welcome!

Did you confirm fuel delivery to the fuel filter and then to the carb?

I try to steer clear of starting fluid, probably because I know diesels more than gasoline powered engines.

Still, you need air, fuel and spark at the right time.

You're breathing, so that's air and you've confirmed spark, so I'd check fuel to the fuel filter and out of the filter next.

One last thing: When my carb is dry, I take the yellow cap off of the red gas can I use for my lawn mower, fill the yellow cap with gasoline and pour the gas into the carb. That always primes it enough that I don't have to crank the engine for more than a couple of seconds.

-Jon

 

[steve409]

I am in suamico wis. If anyone is interested in looking at it to help get it started---thanks,steve

 

[Lumpy Grits]

WELCOME
Just HOW did you confirm 'spark'?
I would also look at you choke setting. With the partial warm up. It may be open when you want it some-what closed off.
LG

 

[Hedgehog]

Why would timing slip from basically one day to the next.

So, what's different today than it was a few days ago? More than likely cold and wetness. First I'd stick a charger on the battery. The jeep might turn over well, but have a dead or low voltage cell. Then pull the distributor cap and spray some WD40 in there to make sure it's dry, if you still have points gently file them smooth, but not enough to change the gap. Or, you can put a piece of emery cloth between the points, a couple gentle pulls will be enough. Sometimes a film will build up on the points degrading the contacts to the point where a weather change can cause starting problems. Stop there, put the cap back on. Spritz a little ether in the carb. and give her a try. I'd almost bet she will start. Could be water in the tank or fuel lines, dump some dry gas in the tank, if possible bring it into a heated environment to try starting. If your Jeep ran and started well a couple days ago what ever is wrong isn't serious. For goodness sake don't start a major tear down, this is weather related.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

OP-Have you 'messed' with the dizzy at all?
Just for 'grins'(), replace the condenser. What shape are the points in?

LG

 

[Hedgehog]

Just make sure the first steps are only to clean things up a little. Mostly related to moisture creeping into moisture sensitive systems.

And yes of course if from some spectacular event that a good running vehicle breaks down while sitting doing nothing for a few days feel free to start taking things apart. I'm advocating to take it easy, do the simple things before tackling major repairs.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Just make sure the first steps are only to clean things up a little. Mostly related to moisture creeping into moisture sensitive systems.

And yes of course if from some spectacular event that a good running vehicle breaks down while sitting doing nothing for a few days feel free to start taking things apart. I'm advocating to take it easy, do the simple things before tackling major repairs.

110%!
LG

 

[76cj7chick]

Did this issue just happen all of a sudden?
Anything 'strange' happen when you started the jeep before the storm? Did it start right up or did it complain, pop, fart.. Etc? Did you kick anything in the jeep when entering or exiting it?

Confirm its getting fuel. Pull hose off while cranking to measure fuel.
Confirm rotor on distributor is spinning while cranking.
Make sure you have enough gas in tank. (Obvious but important)
Make sure you dont have a dirty clogged fuel filter.
Make sure carb injectors have nice spray of gas. Check for vacuum leaks.
Check all grounds. (Jeep are notorious for bad grounds)
Check make sure no fuses blew and all wire terminals are clean and connected.

Sorry, don't want to be 'captain obvious' but hear are some simple thoughts.

Good luck!

 

[Fastatv]

Great suggestions. But he hasn't been back here in 6 days. Hmmmm