Expert: Robert Russell - 1/22/2012

Question
I can't get it started. New battery. It seems like it wants to start but it won't.

Answer
Hello Michelle,

I'll try to give you an approach here as the reasons a car won't start are numerous. You have to take the attitude of a detective and systematically go through each system to find the root cause, as there can be multiple problems why an old car won't start.

From your description, it sounds like the car will turn over. It also sounds like you're getting some spark but not sufficient to start. Assuming I'm correct, I'd first check if you're getting gas to the carburetor. You can do this by opening up the throttle, looking down the inside of the carburetor and see if there is fuel there. If yes, then check to see if the Choke or butterfly valve is closed or will close--this is a MUST to get the car started. Finally, get a small squirt bottle and fill with gas. Spray a small quantity of gas directly down the throat of the carburetor, set the choke closed and try starting. If my assumptions are correct, you ought to get at least a short start. If so, you're on your way!!

From here, you branch out in order to get the car running well. What you need to primarily look at is fuel (is it being delivered to the carburetor and then to the engine) and  fire ( are the spark plugs and wires good in the secondary ignition system and are the cap, rotor and points good and adjusted in the primary ignition system. This is where you need to be systematic and trace problems to the source. For example, car running but rough, start with plugs, the secondary ignition wires, then distributor cap in that order. Fuel? clean and adjust carburetor, change fuel filter, check fuel pump in that order also. As you can see, you can quickly get into the depths of automotive mechanics. But try it simply first as stated in the second paragraph. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you get in over your head. Remember, the essence of a good hobbyist mechanic is knowing what he or she can do and what he can't.

Best of luck getting this fine car back on the road!

Bob