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Discussion Topic:
Can't start my engine
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miwi |
09-26-2011 @ 3:54 AM
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Member
Posts: 14
Joined: Feb 2011
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Hi, I couldn't find a better topic title. Let me discribe the problem. I had installed a french block in my F1. I had convert everything that is necessary from 6V to 12V. I had crank the engine with the 12V starter a few times with out problems. Before I wanted to start the engine I tried to crank it again the starter. I had added water, install the fuel line and the rest of the eletrical users. Water & Oil level is ok. I wanted to start the engine, but the engine turns a bit (your hear that the starter engages), stops, turns, etc.. At first I forgot the ground on the governor, I add the ground and again it turns, stops etc. I had checked the battery and I measeured appr. 14V, which means it is charged. Before I continue, does anybody has an idea whats wrong? Thanks for your help Michael
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TomO |
09-26-2011 @ 7:17 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7253
Joined: Oct 2009
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If all that was changed from when you were able to crank the engine to the current situation, I would look into a leaking head gasket. A no load voltage reading on a battery does not give a good indication of the state of charge. Measure the voltage when the starter is engaged. Try turning the engine over by hand. Try using the starter without the plugs.
Tom
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supereal |
09-26-2011 @ 10:13 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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Pull the spark plugs and try the starter. If the engine is "hydrolocked" (water in a cylinder) you will see it come out of the affected cylinder. Hydrolock can be due to a leaking head gasket, or a cracked block or head. Water doesn't compress. As it occured after the water was installed, I'd guess that is where the problem started (no pun). TomO and I are on the same page on this one. The only reliable ways to check a battery is by hydrometer, or a tester with a variable load. You can get some kind of an idea of the charge by putting the headlights on for a few minutes to remove the "surface charge. In your case, I don't think the battery is at fault. I wouldn't keep trying to crank the engine until you know there is no hydrolock, or piston and rod damage is likely.
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miwi |
09-26-2011 @ 11:42 PM
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Member
Posts: 14
Joined: Feb 2011
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Thanks for the hints. I'll keep you informed Michael
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shogun1940 |
09-29-2011 @ 7:27 AM
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Member
Posts: 464
Joined: Feb 2010
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I have a french flathead, did you build it or did you send it out??
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miwi |
09-29-2011 @ 11:30 PM
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Member
Posts: 14
Joined: Feb 2011
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@TomO, @supereal, I did what you recommended, no water comes out of spark plug holes. But I found water leaking through the center stud. I had removed the cylinder head checked the gasket and the cylinder bores. I could see a few drops, but I think that comes aout of head during disassembly. @shotgun1940 I bought one of complete engine military engines that were sold here in Germany. Michael
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TomO |
09-30-2011 @ 8:39 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7253
Joined: Oct 2009
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Michael, did you try turning the engine over by hand? If you can turn the engine over by hand, I would try to turn it over with the ignition switch off. You may have a timing problem. If it still acts the same, I would have the starter checked. The bushings could be worn, causing it to fail under load.
Tom
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