8N will not start

[jbull380]

I have a Ford 8N with a side mount distributor and a 12 volt system. I have noticed it getting harder and harder to start especially in cold weather. Last year I changed the plugs and wires and that helped. Today it just wouldn’t even try to fire up. I replaced the plugs, points, coil and rotor bug. I’m getting fire to the plugs but it won’t start. I’m seeing a lot of fuel at the air intake on the carburetor after removing the tube that goes to the air filter. I also see fuel seeping from the carburetor at the gasket. Have I got a fuel problem or ignition problem here?

 

[Bruce (VA)]

First, replace the plugs. You flooded it, they're fouled & it will be it next to impossible to start. You don't need to toss them; heat the tips for a few seconds w/ a propane torch to burn off the invisible spark-robbing deposits from today's additive filled gasoline........or wash them in brake cleaner.

Next, make sure you have a good battery. Check it. Should be 12.65 fully charged.

The usual cause of gas dripping out of the carb throat is operator error.

While each N has its own starting sequence, none of them will start well by just yanking out the choke rod & holding it out for 5 or 10 seconds while the engine cranks. This is a gravity fuel system on a low compression engine; it is easily flooded by too much choke.

Try this:

Key on, gas on 2 full turns, clutch in, 3/4 throttle, press the starter button. Let it crank for at least 3 - 4 seconds before you pull the choke rod. Then, don't hold it out for more than 2 or 3 seconds.

If you find out it will not start w/o excessive choking, you have problems.
75 Tips

 

[jbull380]

Thanks I’ll give it a try

 

[Jim L WA]

After drying out the plugs, don't forget to check the battery voltage like Bruce said. You say it's been getting harder and harder to start. The battery might be going south and not holding a charge. You are still using a 6 volt starter, so that would mask a weak battery.

 

[jbull380]

You da man!

Fired right up! Plowed the garden and had enough daylight left to change the oil.

 

[Bruce (VA)]

Thanks for the follow up.

Weak Battery?

Fouled plugs?

 

[jbull380]

(quoted from post at 17:54:09 03/08/19) Thanks for the follow up.

Weak Battery?

Fouled plugs?

Battery was weak from all the cranking but the plugs we’re fouled

 

[Jim L WA]

Thanks for the feedback. Glad to hear that it's up and running, but keep an eye on that battery. You said that it had been getting harder and harder to start, especially in cold weather.