Very hard to start....if it does

[artieZguy]

I have a 72 240Z that is extremly hard to start. When I crank it over it sounds like its wants to start, but doesn't. Then some times it does for a second or so then dies. This car was so dependable I use to brag on it. Start it and go no problems no worries. Well I let it sit for about a year...finally took it to a shop who got it running... I drove it home. Went back out to wash it, went to start it....same old thing. Man....all help and suggestions gladly welcome and appreciated.Oh...when I went to pick up the car today it sounded like a champ! The mechanic said he fixed some linkage, balanced the SU's and adjusted the valves.

[2ManyZs]

Since you say it sat for a year the first thing that comes to my mind is something has probably gotten into the fuel filter. May have been some gunk form the tank or maybe you had a little condensation in the tank. First thing i would do is to replace the fuel filter, if that doesn't help you might want to look at the old filter to see if there is a lot of garbage in it. If there is you might want to drain the fuel tank. You might also need to replace or clean the fuel pump if you are using the stock mechanical pump. It is also possible the fuel pump diaphram may have gone bad while it was sitting. There is a good start on what may be causing your problem, if that doesn't help, let us know and we can all join in with other ideas.

[Datzun76]

Mine was running fine then all the sudden would not start. Several mechanics looked at it and could not figure it out. So after taking it to a Z car specialist the problem was a simple connection right under the dash to the left side of the driver's seat. I do not know what they connected but it prevented the car from starting.

[artieZguy]

Hey thanks for the prompt thought. I was tinkering w/ the carbs for about an hour or so after 1st posting my mayday. It almost seems like it has to do something with the chokes...but any how I will take a look at the fuel pump tommorrow. I took off the fuel filter and it seemed to be ok. I did blow it out. I didn't go to the lines or tank yet. When I drove it home today from the shop I had all power... it was only after I parked it for a bit and then tried to restart it. I just hope the adjustments are ok with me tinkering with it and all. Sometimes I'm my own worst enemy...sigh. will let you all know how it goes..thanks again...Art in Stockton

[artieZguy]

Hmmm...

Well.....as I was about to replace the fuel pump, I went to start up the 'ol Z and it started right up! Drove it around the neighborhood, turned it off and restarted ok. I then went to wash it , let it sit for awhile and it still starts up. Man...I really don't know what to do or say right now. Guess I'll play by ear for a few days...kinda feel uneasy and hope it doen't give out at the most in-opportune time.

Artie in Stockton