Help a Somewhat Newbie Out (sorry so long)

I just got the two Service Manuals for my 63 CJ-5 project. F-134 turns over, but just won't start. I replaced the coil/plugs/wires and got a good spark. Compression was in the 80's across the board but still wouldn't turn over with starter fluid. Started to check the timing and found there was no air being "sucked in" through the carb (sorry for lact of proper terminology). Any ideas? My next step is to continue with the tear down and see if the valves or head is shot.

There was some "shaddy" mod's done also:
- Electrical fuel pump installed on the frame under drivers seat with direct feed from gas tank (no sending unit)
- Minimal vaccum lines/breather lines. I think the whole vaccum system was removed
- Aftermarket oil filter/bracket
- Holley single barrel carb that appears to be "jerry rigged" from my limited experience with engines.

The plan is to get the $300 project restored with some slight modifications up and running by NEXT summer. Should I plan swapping the engine? Or overhaul?

Sorry for long post, I just need a point in the right direction.

Joey

 

compression in the 80's would indicate that the valves are working, so yeah, I'd look at the exhaust system for starters too. Or...........maybe they really screwed up the intake system or a mouse made a home in there? Or, this would really be terrible, the intake manifold is not only cracked, but a chunk has fallen out letting the air go in there instead of thru the carb. Water getting in thru the carb & then freezing could do this. I've had $50 wonders ($100 & $185, etc.) with worse symptoms that I was able to get going, so with a little luck & perseverance you should be able to do the same! Good luck!

 

We all know it takes three things to make these things run, Fuel-Compression-spark. Simple! right. You shot starting fluid into it and nothing (if you do get a running eng on starting fluid don't keep it running on it you'll melt a piston) . Compression 80, a little low but enough to start, Maybe a leak down check, set the valves. Electrical, timing, make sure spark is happening at the right time. If all three of these things are present than look for the strange things. I've found the strange things are longshots stay with common sense stuff. Although the long shots do win sometimes!! Good luck

 

Thanks for the pointer's. I was going to tear the engine down (somewhat) and see how things look. I guess I'll look into the exhaust too.

 

as w3 (the other steve) said definitely make sure that the COIL WIRE IS DISCONNECTED if you cover the carb with your hand. just in case the engine almost catches. a backfire through the intake is kinda painful when it toasts your hand.

we're assuming that you are, indeed, getting a spark all the way to the plugs.

 

I got lucky (atleast I think I did), I found "complete and running" F-134 for $350.