Starter "kicks out" upon ignition

[michaelclyde]

I've read the "engine trying to start" threads and not sure if same problem:

Have a new starter in a '84 Chevy 229ci 3.8 that spins, cranks just fine with coil wire removed but as soon as I reconnect ignition and try key starter almost immediately kicks out/all comes to HALT with engine not even close to running with occasional backfiring.

Have checked distributor position on #1 compression, fire order wiring correct . . . sometimes seems to be struggling against continuing start rotation with intake manifold being the only thing I've messed with/removed?

Possible lifter/valve stick? Electric miswire/short circuit?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Starter "kicks out" upon ignition

Sure sounds like timing is way off or spark plug wires out of order. How was the timing set?

 

[michaelclyde]

Re: Starter "kicks out" upon ignition

Sure sounds like timing is way off or spark plug wires out of order. How was the timing set?

THX Bruce! I just double checked the order and point gap and noticed when I disconnect #4 plug at the distributor it cranks more freely / continuously (but BATT weakens quickly, am using a smaller temp "jumper box).

I have no time light (was looking for marks manually) but I know I returned distrib exactly as I found it by matching up #1 with rotor position on compression stroke & cap wire at approx "5:30". Am now playing with timing by turning distrib a little each way . . .

Idiot Fesses Up -> Would two very sticky to stuck hydraulic lifters on #4 (or one on #2 and one on #4) grind the whole works to a halt? The covers are hard to remove due packed in exhaust manifolds & harness do a visual inspect of rocker action/valve adjustment?

 

[6meter]

Re: Starter "kicks out" upon ignition

If it worked before you removed the manifold and the dizzy, chances are that you put it together wrong. Maybe put the dizzy in 180* off.