Hello all,
I am still having troubles with my 1971 olds cutlass with a 403 from a 79 delta 88. It's been a bit more than a month since it stopped running. One morning went to start it wouldn't start cranks great but no start. We noticed a plug wire was hanging down, no clue how it popped off. I have replaced the spark plug wires, the ignition module, and the coil. Also at one point I removed the fuel pump and noticed the timing chain was very loose. The fuel pump is fairly new and is getting gas to the carb no problem. A while back I accidentally crushed one of my headers in and had to change the idling speed to a higher setting to keep the car running. I am already aware of some shortages with the lights but don't think that could cause it not to start. I really need some help, I am only 16 but I would appreciate any help possible. Thanks alot,
Zach

 

Did you check for spark?Take a plug out,put it on the plug wire hold it on the engine where it will be grounded careful how you hold it so you don't get zapped,turn the engine over you should get a spark.Also while you have the plug out check for compression by covering the plug hole with your thumb when you turn the engine over it should blow your thumb away,if it dosen't then the timing chain may be broke.

 

I have not checked for compression but I have taken the plugs off and checked for spark and haven't seen anything we have looked for even a small spark but there was nothing

 

I would check to see if you have power going to the dist. If you do have power. Then if you didn't change the the cap and rotor that might be your problem.

 

Did you replace the pickup coil if this is a HEI distributor? It is a possible problem, it is a cheap and easy part to replace.

 

if it's HEI I'd test the module.