[corvette77]

Trying to start the 350 chev in my corvette, dist.was removed, I found TDC and set distributor from there, and double checked it again, checked for spark and that is good to as well as fuel. Checked under both valve covers too and everything is moving as it should. I'm stumped as to why I'm not getting even close to hearing it start ?

[Kevin45]

How did you set TDC? With the piston at the top, or did you look at the balancer also to check your timing mark? Also double check that you have the wires correct. So many times an individual will states that everything is correct only to go back, and the wire placement is starting at a position on the cap other than one, or the firing order is not correct. Also make sure the cap is seated good. Everything has to be double checked.

[corvette77]

I brought the zero on the dampner to zero, as I watched the intake valve open and then close, then I removed the plug in the the no. 1 cyl. and used a tube and tried to blow air into the cylinder, I could not. I then pulled the dist. cap and the rotor was pointing away from the no. 1 position, so I turned the dist. to the straight up no. 1 and still not firing ?

[Kevin45]

Stupid question probably, but is the coil wire on? You stated you had spark, but where did you check for spark? At the cap, or at the plugs? And since you have spark then it is safe to say that you have the distributor wire plugged in.

[corvette77]

Yes I actually pulled the #1 spark plug and later pulled another and made sure they were getting a spark and they are. The only thing I am thinking is that perhaps I'am not getting enough fuel, the pump is working and the carb bowls are full, as well when I move the throttle linkage there is plenty of gas going down in the venturi from the squirters. However the motor hasn't run for about a year so perhaps it needs a little more ?

[poncho62]

I would try a set of new plugs.......they may not be firing under compression.

If it's getting fuel and spark, it's got to be timing or lack of compression........

[corvette77]

I will have to check the plugs to see their condition. Just curios though, what would make the plugs not fire under compression if they are getting a spark when I check them?

[corvette77]

O.k. A little update. I pulled the spark plugs, thoroughly cleaned them, checked the firing order and plug wires again to make sure nothing was crossed. Engine started but very rough, won't stay running unless I keep on the throttle, as well when it is running I am getting a good pop/backfire out the driver side exhaust. Im thinking about checking valve adjments next but I cant help but think it may be a timing issue ??

[T-bucket23]

Originally Posted by corvette77

O.k. A little update. I pulled the spark plugs, thoroughly cleaned them, checked the firing order and plug wires again to make sure nothing was crossed. Engine started but very rough, won't stay running unless I keep on the throttle, as well when it is running I am getting a good pop/backfire out the driver side exhaust. Im thinking about checking valve adjments next but I cant help but think it may be a timing issue ??

Check the wires on 5 and 7 they are easy to cross as they are next to each other on both ends

Chet

[Cape Cod Bob]

GAS, is it also a year old!
If so you will run rough and may clog up the carb. I suggest drain and put in fresh gas man.

[corvette77]

I have checked 5 & 7 on both ends and that is good, but the fresh gas idea, that's a good one I didn't even think about that part. I'm going to loosen the exhaust rocker as well, it seems like the back fire is only coming from the driver side bank, perhaps one of the exhaust rockers is too tight ?

[alittle1]

I wouldn't be too hasty about touching the valves. Try ONE thing at a time and mark your location on ANYTHING that you move.

[corvette77]

Well, it started and even got it to idle within minutes of it starting. Just wanted to thank all of you for your comments and help. I think the new plugs and fresh gas was all it needed. Sometimes the little things that you discard are really the big problems after all. Thanks again !