Hard Starting C

[ljw]

The neighbor called me down to look at his C yesterday. It has been getting harder to start and wanted me to take a look at it. It is a 6 volt system but has nice bright blue spark that will bridge a 1/2 gap. Gas is not a problem. Spins over well. I ran a compression test on it and 3 of the 4 cylinders are at 60 and one at 35. I pull started it and it started within 5 feet. I let it run for a while noticing it had a fair amount of blow-by at the oil fill cap. After running, it starts right up while warm. Re-checked the compression after running and all 4 are at 65-70. I think she is just showing her age a little and needs some engine work. At a minimum I think it will need rings. Most likely will give it a full overhaul. Any other thoughts before we get in to it?

 

[Janicholson]

Adjusting the valves might be first on my list. Then I would look to battery voltage when cranking. 5 volts is about as low as can be accepted. Lower and it will not spark well while cranking. Clean bright connections and a starter draw of 200 to 250 amps is OK. Jim

 

[PretendFarmer]

as mentioned adjust the valves. I find it's the most neglected maintenance thing on tractors. Right next to oil changes.

 

[old]

This may not help but it is worth a try. Pour in some ATF and let ti sit a few days be sure to put the plug back in to keep dirt etc out. Then after a few days pull the plugs spin it over to clear out the cylinders and see if it will start up and run then check compression. If it sit say over the winter the rings could be sticking which would cause the low compression

 

[gene bender]

Check tappet clearance that mite be the cause of bad compression 14thous is the setting. Bought a Cub in Missouri missing bad three tappets were set too close therefore not letting valves in two cycls not closing tight enough and were all carboned up. Good cleaning and resetting runs like new again. Same old stuff never know just what you are getting when you buy used go back to basics with first compression check without compression all the new parts wont make it rite.