[10Tonhammer]

I have a 52 dodge with a 218 Plymouth flathead engine in know nothing about the engine in this car other than the last time it ran was in the early 90's. It does turn over by hand with the belts off so it is not locked up. I don't know why it quit running or if the previous owner just got tired of it and let it sit. Where should u start in getting it running. Most people say these will run so long as they aren't locked up. I was thinking I would obviously drain and replace the fluids pull the gas tank and clean and maybe replace if its to rusty then blow out and inspect the fuel lines replace fuel filter. Does the mechanical pump need primed if so how? I've only messed with a few carbureted engines and they were running. My experience is with fuel injection. Just trying to make sure I don't screw it up before I get it going. Thanks for your help.

Kris.

[timothale]

Fuel left in the car could have gummed up the fuel pump and carb.. first I try running spray can carb cleaner thru the fuel in line . carb and fuel pump. .then try to start it.. If that doesn't work you will probably have to take it apart for more clean up-rebuild, years ago you could buy rebuild kits for fuel pumps if it is a screw together type.

[68NovaSS]

I would also prime the oil pump, and clean up the plugs/points/cap. As far as priming the fuel pump, back in the day, we put some gas down the carb (not while cranking...) to get it to fire, sometimes it takes a few times to get fuel up to the motor. A short blast of starting fluid will tell you if it's going to fire. Keep a dry rag handy to smother out carb fires, it happens sometimes.

[Cape Cod Bob]

I wouldn't boiher changeing any fluids until you think it will start. I woiuld disconnect the fuel line at the carb and rig up a gravity feed bottle and hose to the carb. If it runs you will have to clean out the tank and I would put in new lines and a new pump. Along with a shot of starter fluid. If it wants to start and does let it run a little. Then you can change the oil. Check the oil first with the dip stick to be sure it is not sludgey.
Be sure to post back as you make progress.
If it runs you can then do a tune up on it.

[BOBCRMAN@aol.com]

Originally Posted by Cape Cod Bob

I wouldn't boiher changeing any fluids until you think it will start. I woiuld disconnect the fuel line at the carb and rig up a gravity feed bottle and hose to the carb. If it runs you will have to clean out the tank and I would put in new lines and a new pump. Along with a shot of starter fluid. If it wants to start and does let it run a little. Then you can change the oil. Check the oil first with the dip stick to be sure it is not sludgey.
Be sure to post back as you make progress.
If it runs you can then do a tune up on it.

X-2 done many that way. That way if it knocks or has internal problems you aren't out very much$$$..