1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

Ok.. so my flathead SIX, (12 volt) is dialed in and starts every time. My friend's stock 47 V8 (6 volt) starter always turns over but doesn't want to start. We can push/pull/bump start it and it runs fine. The coil was replaced recently as well as the condenser. Sometimes it will start after cranking a few extra times, many other times it won't. it doesn't matter if engine is hot or cold... It is getting spark.. I am just wondering if it is the ballast resistor or something else like the lead from the ignition key (still has starter button on the dash) might have a bad lead that makes it short out once in a while? :eek:

Please help Fordbarners.. My friend is a luddite and refuses to log on to fordbarn..
but he sure can buy crap on ebay!

Thanks, WALT

Re: 1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

You say it is getting spark, but question the resistor? Have you tried adding fuel to the carb when it won't start? There is a thread over on the Early V8 forum on voltage checking now. It is going to take a little detective work to track it down.

Re: 1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

Check that the earth strap from the back of the r/h head is connected to the firewall. I have had this problem...engine will crank over fine, but not start.

Re: 1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

I would jump the coil directly to the battery with jumper wire then try it. That will
rule out a weak resistor. I still will never figure why only Ford used a resistor no other
maker did. I must be a coil thing. And then no resistor on 1949 & up?? Then it has
been said if you use a regular coil you don't use a resistor. I have a regular beer can
coil on my 46 & its instant start . sam

Re: 1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

Best thing I ever did is convert my 48 to 12 volts.Starts every time before a full revolution is over.

Re: 1947 V8 Ford hard starting
 

My friend doesn't listen to me enough.. he bought the coil on ebay.. I told him to send his old coil to Skip Haney.. he just gives me a blank stare. My friend has many cars & motorcycles. But this is his only flathead ford. He doesn't have the passion for the engine, so his knowledge is limited. :rolleyes: