Questions and Answers

Chevrolet Corvette No Start Q. Dear Vince, I've recently purchased a 1978 Chevy Corvette L-82, 4-speed manual transmission. I made a couple of short trips in it and it runs great. I put it in the garage where it sat for the last two months. Now it won't start. It seems to be turning over but it just won't catch. The battery is brand new.

Is this a problem with the starter or solenoid? In reviewing the maintenance records I found that the original owner (I'm the second owner) had the starter and solenoid replaced when the car was still new, in 1978. Is this a common problem for that year? I've also seen ads for the "Mean Green Starter" by MG Industries, have you heard anything about that? I hope that you're able to answer my questions.

Thank you for your time,
Brian

A. I don't understand your question. You say it "turns over but won't catch." Turning over means that the starter is cranking the motor around but it is either not getting gas or spark to light it off. If this is the case start by making sure the carburetor is squirting gas when the throttle is pumped. Then pull a plug wire off and crank it over to make sure the thing has spark.

As for the starter you mentioned, no offense but anyone who buys a Corvette and throws an off brand part on it should not be allowed to buy a Corvette. Most Corvette owners are very picky about keeping their Corvette all original! That is why the values stay high.