Thread: rebuilt sbf 302 won't start

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i'm trying to start this newly rebuilt engine but i just isn't happening. only 4 of the 8 cylinders seen to be firing. well, trying to fire- i got fuel and they all have spark. what could be causing this problem?

I would check firing order and make sure dist. installed correctly (rotor pointing at no. one spark plug wire on cap while engine is on compression stroke).

i double and triple checked. took the new one out. reinstalled the old one. same thing. i'm not sure if it's something on my engine builders end, as far as the cam not being correct. i'm trying to avoid lugging it all the back over there and risk damaging something

will if thats alright then I would go to valve adjustment, and i am not a SBF guy but I would check that next. I dont know how a hyd. lifter ford adjust I know some torque and some adjust. Just trying to help. If it was a chevy we would have her running LOL.

There are two diff firing orders for SBF's.
Step 1 : Ford cylinder numbering = 1-2-3-4 passenger side, 5-6-7-8 driver side, not to be confused with a chebby or mopar that alternate from side to side as the count increases
Step 2 : Verify which firing order cam is installed, generally referred to as non-HO firing order, or HO/351w firing order

What year 302 did you have built? What is the part# and brand of cam installed? Later 5.0 (aka 302) had a standard firing order and an H.O. firing order which is shared with the 351 Windsor.It is not uncommon by some engine builders to use a 351 cam and firing order when doing a build.It would also help if you could tell us what heads are on it as there are two types of rocker arms used in SBF's.

it's from a 1970 mustang coupe. he didn't get me the build sheet yet. it's only been a week. so i don't know what cam is in there. i know that originally it had the non-HO firing order, but i didn't realize there was another order. it has the stock heads w/ all new rockers, springs, rods, etc. i'm gonna get that build sheet then i'll give it a try

i just switched the firing order over to the 351 cam setup and i think that did the trick. they are all firing, i got some backfire out the carb, so i just have to do so tweeking to keep it running. thanks for the help!

Thats great sorry I was no help but not a ford guy thats great. Whats up with two diff. firing orders anyway

So glad to see you kept a Ford in a FORD!

it's a must