[MV] New Question; M38A1 Hard Starting Problem

Dave Cole (DA_Cole@compuserve.com)
Wed, 5 Aug 1998 16:35:21 -0400

Message text written by "OmniTech"
>New question - checked compression last night, cold engine, obviously. G=
ot
readings around 70 PSI on two, three and four; number one was around 60.
The
manual says what I should get on a warm engine, and states that could
engine
would be less, but doesn't say how much less. Are these numbers too low?
<

I don't know the exact specs but my 39 Ford tractor with a flathead can g=
et
90 psi cold, so obviously 60 psi isn't too good. Could be rings, valves,=

or both. Anyway, before you rip everything apart, make sure that you hav=
e
spark on all cylinders by putting a timing light on each plug wire while
cranking. Then if you have spark, do a simple spark intensity test, pull=

off the wires one at a time, put about 1/4" away from a head bolt and se=
e
if it will jump the gap. You should be able to get 3/16-1/4" easy. If y=
ou
can't, you have a weak coil. (Internal arcing likely).

Also, don't forget about starting fluid, just be careful as it is very
flammable.

Good Luck,

Dave =

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