E/G Won't Crank....Need Opinions, PLEASE HELP Options

[Jhensley]

OK so I just put in a rebuilt motor for my 7A-FE and I've not been able to start it.

When I first tried, it started right up but ran like crap (maybe ignition timing?) so I shut it off after 5-10seconds. I adjusted ignition timing again, by rotating the distributor, and it didn't sound much better but this time it died on me.

After adjusting it a third time it would crank but would not start. I checked and there is fuel on the plugs, but I couldn't get the plugs to spark. So I replaced the plugs and wires and came back. It still cranked but would not start. I don't have the alternator hooked up yet and this is a fresh battery but after a few tries the starter would not turn anymore, it engages but is too weak (with new battery). If I jump the battery with my other car the starter will once again turn, but not start.

I also tried rotating the engine with a breaker bar on the crank and it is noticeable harder to turn than when I put the E/G in the car.

Finally, I pulled the oil filter off and there was little if any oil at all in it. I'm not sure if this is normal considering the car has not ran for more than a few seconds but I thought it would fill up before anything else.

So...is this motor on the verge of siezing or should I take it to a shop to figure out why it will not start?

This post has been edited by Jhensley: May 6, 2007 - 1:47 PM

[alltracman78]

First off, it DOES crank.
Cranking is when the starter turns the engine over.
It won't start [or catch] is your problem.

If the starter will easily turn it over, it's not on the verge of seizing.

When you adjust the dist, do it with the engine running.
Just don't touch any other part of the car other than the dist while your doing it.

The oil in the filter will depend on if it has an anti drainback valve or not.

Does it have a new cap/rotor too?

Did you check valve timing?

You can always borrow a compression tester from autocrap to make sure it has good compression.