problem starting

[Steve Gallegos]

Been having problems starting, has been cranking about 10 times then starts and runs fine. This morning before I tried to start it I checked the rotor, it looked like it had some rust build up on it so I wire brushed it and replaced it. Now when I try to start, cranks 3times, stops cranks 3 times stops 3 more then stops. I replaced the rotor. same thing. Any ideas?

[ERA 626]

what do you mean cranks 3 times? the motor turns over 3 times? If the car ran good before changing the rotor, it is probably something you did while removing the dist cap. Make sure your coil wire in pushed in all the way. Did you turn your distributor? is the hold down bolt loose?

[PeteF]

The ignition coil going bad can cause your symptoms.

[Steve Gallegos]

How do I check the coil?

[Steve Gallegos]

ERA626, I mean the engine turns over 3 times then stops then 3 more times It will keep doing this if I keep the button pushed. I didn't start the car this morning before I checked the rotor. Everything is correct with the distributor.

[Ron61]

Steve,

You can check the coil a couple of ways. One is to remove the high voltage lead from the top of the distributor cap and turn the engine over and see if you get a really good spark to ground. Another is if you have a meter you can check the input and output voltage and also measure the resistance of the primary and secondary windings.

Ron

[strictlypersonl]

Make sure that the centrifugal advance isn't sticking.

[spdbrake]

Originally Posted by Steve Gallegos

ERA626, I mean the engine turns over 3 times then stops then 3 more times It will keep doing this if I keep the button pushed. I didn't start the car this morning before I checked the rotor. Everything is correct with the distributor.

If you have a 3 crank-stop, 3 crank-stop, issue its not in the ignition circuit.
Most likely in the cranking circuit.
I'd check for:
Poor connections at the battery.
Possible failing battery. See it if does it with jumper cables and the slave car running.
Headlights getting very dim during cranking is also a clue to a poor connection or failing battery.
Starter with one failed brush can also cause slow cranking.

[Steve Gallegos]

Thanks everyone, I finally checked with my mechanic, he thinks it's the starter motor, He had another one do the same thing.