VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc 1929 Chevy 2Dr

I have been messing around with a pretty fair 1929 2Dr. It has a straight six. 6VDC system. It won't start. I pulled #1 plug and saw a spark, albeit a weak spark but a spark non the less. I removed all of the plugs gave them a quick blast checked the gap .040. New distributor cap, contact breakers and a new battery. I drained the fuel tank and all associated fuel lines. I sprayed fuel directly into the intake and cranked away. Nuthin. Zero, nada, not even a pop. I pulled all of the plugs again and checked compression, all six were between 80-85psi. So the way I see it, I have compression and I have fuel it has to be this 6VDC ignition system... I hear tell 18* BTDC, but I really don't know. I don't even know if there is a way to hook up a timing light. Is there a calibration mark on the crank? Is 18* correct? This updraft carb I pulled off is a pretty neat carb. I have not a clue if it works well or not. It is a single bbl updraft with a big brass float bowl and a very cool brass float and a great big long external accelerator pump. Lot of whatever was in there I cleaned it all out .. This thing should run. It is a nice looking vehicle probably in better than fair to good condition....What am I missing?

I think you are missing a strong spark. New points often need to be cleaned or filed. A strong spark and rich fuel mixture are necessary as the plugs are in a pocket in the head. Also check to be sure the condenser has the case grounded. Give a short squirt of carburetor cleaner or starting fluid into the throat of the carburetor. The when cranking pull on the choke and as soon as it fires push in the choke.
If that doesn't get it to fire come back for more things to try.

A timing light can be used but most need a 12 volt power source to produce a bright light.

Here is a link, it will help you to set the timing:

https://1931chevrolet.com/specs7c.htm

Mihaly

In regards to a weak spark, make sure the plug wires are wire cores not the carbon fiber kind. Also make sure your coil is 6 volt, and since our Chevrolets are negative ground the hot wire should go to the positive contact. It should be a nice blue spark.

Contact breakers are new. I have the carb in pieces now. I will reassemble and check timing and gaps...m