Cold Blooded FE

[601HP]

Bluedog,
I'm thinking like Commander. But, if the timing is correct, how strong is your spark?

Years ago I had a severe starting problem. Once while trying to determine what the problem was, I happened to have the hood up and was looking into the engine compartment while cranking the engine. I saw an arc jumping from the middle of the coil wire to a nearby metal bracket. That bugger was robbing most of the energy before it was getting to the plugs.

That pinhole in the coil wire was nearly invisible to the eye.

David

[Bluedog]

Thanks for the suggestions so far! I've been going through a process of elimination trying to rule out the easy stuff. I sprayed just a little starter fluid into the 4 barrell and it started right up! Don't think it's a timing or spark issue from this test. Does the result suggest I'm not getting enough fuel into the carb? If so, you already know my next question, where do I increase the fuel mixture on a Holly 750?

[cobred]

Before trying to start it cold next time, look down the primary side of the carb. with a flashlight and pump the accellerator a few times. You should see 2 sprays of fuel during each pump. If not your carb bowl may be draining the fuel out while sitting. Make sure nobody touches the key and its off while looking down the carb.

[pgermond]

Try what Cobred suggests. If the primaries are spraying, then it's most likely a spark and/or timing issue. If not, then you have a carb issue and should look on the Holley site for help. I have the same MSD set-up and Holley... couple pumps on the throttle and blam, she's fired up. You can try the sock in the carb to simulate a choke, but with 75 degree temp it shouldn't be necessary. By the way.... that starter fluid will light up by rubbing a couple of sticks together

[mrud]

I was having the exact same problem with my 427 so. I finally fount the culprit. What I did was purchase and electric fuel pressure gauge and permanently mounted it under my dash with a clock so it looked professional. Found out that when the car sat for over a week, fuel pressure would bleed down. When I crank the engine, it took quite awhile for fuel pressure to build back up and then the engine started. Problem: leaking down fuel pump.
Replaced, fuel pressure comes right up: engine starts. Let me know it that helps. BTW. If you plan on putting a fuel pressure gauge in your cabin like I did. Please, please and pay the extra $$ for an electric gauge with a sensor. You do not want a line running into your car with fuel as in mechanical gauge.
Regards,
Mike R