I drove around the 71 Comet the other day to run errands and every time I came back to the car she took a couple of attempts before she started again. It sounded like fuel wasn't getting to the engine maybe? Or is it that the car is old and that's just the way it's going to be. Any suggestions on this?
I remember reading about this. I am pretty sure it has to do with the choke. If the choke is already off but the engine isn't hot enough yet then it would make sense that you'd need to get more fuel to get her started. Maybe that's why it takes a few tried to get it started.
I'd say do a complete tune-up and go from there. Spark plugs, gap them points, condenser- check rotor, dist. cap and spark plug wires. Gas filter, don't forget to check the connecting rubber hoses. Air filter Oil change if not done in last 6 months or so Check engine timing Good time to check anti-freeze- if 2 years old may as well flush, change thermo-stat, new anti-freeze. Look at fan belts also See how it starts then and we'll go from there. Good Luck
Okay, here it goes. Spark plugs have been changed recently. Distributor has been upgraded to electronic, No more points, Rotor, cap, and spark plug wires were changed along with the spark plugs, Oil change within last 3 months, Gas filter has also been changed with the fuel pump. Radiator was flushed 3 months ago and changed thermostat. As for engine timing my mechanic timed it when I upgraded to an electronic distributor. I keep hearing about the choke . What does that do?
the choke makes it easy for your car to start when cold by forcing it to run rich at start up as well as allowing it to idle higher than normal to aid in engine warm up.
May want to run it down to your mechanic, have him look at carb. Needle an seat may be leaking or float not set correct. Or need good rebuild. Sounds like you have most other areas covered.
Would this be something I can do in my own garage? Where can I find instructions on cleaning it myself?
Yes you rebuild carb yourself. Not sure how experience around engines you have. Instructions are included with rebuild kit that you can get at your auto parts store. If you don't know what a choke is, I think I would take it where they installed the ignition system. Just being a realest here. You may want to go to a junkyard and buy a cheap old carb to tear apart for the learning. If you feel comfortable doing that,,, Go for it an rebuild yours! Good Luck and always lots of help here if you get stuck
That's some great advice. Thanks I appreciate it. I am a novice but can also learn real quick. I'll go to the junkyard and buy one. Thanks!!
