62 Engine Problem

[SebringBill]

I've been helping switch engines in a 62 (base 327 auto) and have the same problem as before the transplant: the engine doesn't want to start when hot. We've replaced the engine with a correct 62 block, rebuilt the starter, rodded out the radiator and installed a new battery. When cold, it starts and shifts OK. Get things up to operating temp and shifting into drive or reverse stalls the engine. Trying to restart it is the challenge; it's like the battery is low - very slow to crank, even to the point of click, click, click. The next turn of the key could be another click or a slow crank or a few faster cranks. Occasionally it'll start up, but shift it into gear and it stalls again. When running at operating temp, the temp gauge just made it past 180 but when it stalled a fair amount of (new) coolant exited the expanstion tank via the cap, not the overflow tube. I'm wondering where to look next: trans? electrical? (I like my 57 better every day...)

[aquaholic]

my money is on the timing. if that engine is built up at all you'll probably have to set the timing with a vacuum guage. you could also have a vacuum leak. check all your hoses and carb ports. especially the big hose that goes to the brake booster if it has power brakes.

[LLC5]

I would start with the basics and make sure the engine is sound. A cylinder leak down test will give you a good idea of engine health, make sure you are looking for a bad cylinder head gasket if you perform the leak down.

[BillF6531]

Start with the basics: carb fuel level, fuel pressure, fuel filter, grounds - especially, timing, etc.

[SebringBill]

Thanks, all. The gent who built the new engine has been doing it for 35 years, but I'll speak to him about a leak down test. I know we had some "fun" setting the distributor so I'm inclined to head off in the timing direction and letcha know what happens.

[bradfordsvettes]

I would check the timing specs for sure Steve

[LLC5]

Originally Posted by SebringBill

Thanks, all. The gent who built the new engine has been doing it for 35 years, but I'll speak to him about a leak down test. I know we had some "fun" setting the distributor so I'm inclined to head off in the timing direction and letcha know what happens.

Make sure your mechanical advance isn't sticking. What is your base timing set at?

[motorman]

make sure the battery to starter cable is pure copper not copper plated aluminum. also make sure it is not close to the exhaust system as the resistance goes up as the temp goes up causing a voltage drop. try a clamp on amp meter around the cable with a cold engine and a hot engine and see if there is a increase in current draw when engaging the starter. is the ground cable attached to the starter mounting bolt ? did you use the same starter motor on both engines as the starter could be at fault