89 carbie wont run

[jfd64]

I picked up an 89 carbie,my ist after owner many efi's.It runs a few seconds if i pour some gas down its throat.It wants to start on it own but cant quite get there.
What is the best way to check on fuel delivery?May have a wiring issue as it has blown fuses to cluster.I would like to get it running before i decide to keep it a carbie or swap it over to efi.
Thoughts appreciated.

[bravekozak]

Too many variables to troubleshoot with a feedback carb.
Switch to an Escort carb immediately, and then try starting it again.

[FestYboy]

Stuck float and or weak pump, I would start there. Is there any repair history prior to your ownership? How long has it sat since running? Is there any sign of gross vacuum leak?

[WmWatt]

Best way to check for fuel delivery is to take off the air filtre and look inside carb while pumping gas. Should see a squirt of fuel with each pump.

Another way to check on fuel delivery is to disconnect the fuel line at the carburetor and put it into a container to catch the fuel. Then try to start car and see if any gets pumped into the container.

[zoe60]

If it has blown fuses there is a chance that the fuel cut solenoid isn't energizing. That would stop it from running. It is connected to the rectangular plug that goes to the carb. Just a guess. Probably fuel problem, but don't forget the ignition control module in the distributor. Don't know if parts stores know how to test them anymore.

[jfd64]

Thanks for the advise.Was registered about a year ago.They say it ran around the yard a couple months ago.They thought the rings where shot.It is nice enough and nearly pristine underneeth so i may pick up a beater parts car and do an efi swap on it.Still like to know for sure what i have before doing that though.

[bravekozak]

Carbs love a spray of quick start down the throat.
Worry about all of the grunge and water in the fuel tank later.

[WmWatt]

I'd want to measure the compression before scrapping the engine. Rule out the expensive stuff and it's got to be something cheap. How's the fuel filtre look?

[FestYboy]

Also the rubber line that feeds the pump that runs between the body and crossmember likes to collapse internally...

[jfd64]

I tried starting fluid before gas.Runs a few seconds and stalls.Guys i picked it up from said they had it running a couple months ago.Said it was blowing smoke bad and claimed they checked it and found bad compression.I will check it for myself.I found if i turn on the key cluster is functional.When i depress the clutch it blows the 10 amp fuse making it non functional.I will need to get it off my trailer and pull that switch and get an eyeball on the wiring under the dash.Right now i am going in through the hatch.I will probably back burner this one till later after i get some other projects finished.

[fitsbain]

Mine needed a new mechanical pump. The old diaphragm was shot. new pump and filter while I was at it, and a shot of ether and away she went.

[jfd64]

Pump looks newer.Filter could be it.