1977 Ford Pick Up Truck Won't Start
If your 1977 Ford pickup truck is not starting, there are a variety of problems that could be causing it. If you are stranded and do not have many tools with you, there are a couple of tricks to use to try to get the truck working again. However, there are some problems, such those that relate to the electrical system, ignition timing, fuel injection, cracked coils or distributor that could lead to more expensive repairs at an auto service center. Knowing some of the tricks and tips can help you get back on the road quickly.
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Instructions
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Open the hood to your 1977 pickup and inspect the battery cable eyelets where they connect to the battery. If the terminals are corroded, pour carbonated soda over the eyelets. The acid in the soda will dissolve the corrosion, releasing electricity to flow to the starter. If you have a cloth or wired brush, scrape away the corrosion.
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Check the terminal connections on the battery to make sure that they are secured tightly on the car battery. Many times, a tow truck driver will simply try wriggling the battery cables to see if it is just a loose connection that is preventing the car from starting up. If the battery cables themselves are failing, sometimes a little wriggle will reconnect everything in its proper place. Try starting the truck again.
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Tap the starter with a hammer or another blunt object, such as a golf club or baseball bat. If the truck has a whirling sound followed by a click, then that is most likely the starter that is preventing the truck from cranking properly. Tapping the ends of the starter will help it to re-engage with the flywheel. However, if the starter makes a grinding sound when it engages with the flywheel, it is important to replace the starter immediately, otherwise you may cause permanent damage to the flywheel, which is a much more expensive repair.
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Pop the clutch on your truck if nothing else works. You may need a few friends or other nearby motorists to help build momentum. Shift the truck into first gear and put the key into the ignition. Hold the clutch down so that the vehicle can roll forward freely. Once it begins rolling, release the clutch and turn the key at the same time. The vehicle should start up. Be careful to watch out for potential hazards as you will not have much braking ability until the truck's engine is running.
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