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Engine won't turn over - Help

N9783K

New Member
Joined
Jul 5, 2010
Messages
10
I have a 66 Bronco with it's original 289. About 10 years ago I put the NV3550 5 speed in it and it has been awesome. However, a few days ago, I tried to start it and it would not turn over. The starter would engage but wouldn't turn the engine. I charged the battery, then I replaced the starter solenoid and starter. It still would not turn over, I then tried to started it by pulling it and popping the clutch with the transmission in 3rd gear. I replaced the starter cable and one of the battery cables. I checked and the starter is getting plenty of voltage. I also tried a cable direct from the battery to the starter lead at the solenoid. The engine would not turn. In fact, when I tried to pull start it, the tires were dragging on the pavement! The engine ran fine the last time I used it a few days before. It appears that the engine is froze. It has oil and showed no signs of problems previously. How do I figure out what is wrong?
 
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N9783K

New Member
Joined
Jul 5, 2010
Messages
10
I tried all those suggested by blubuckaroo. I'm confident the starter is getting plenty of power. I'll try SteveL 's suggestion today.
 
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svastano

Contributor
Bronco Guru
Joined
Apr 8, 2017
Messages
1,379
Loc.
Pulaski, PA
I would pull all the spark Plugs to see if it is hydro locked. Gas and or water getting into a cylinder and neither will compress!
 

Justafordguy

Bronco Guru
Joined
Sep 26, 2009
Messages
6,255
I would pull all the spark Plugs to see if it is hydro locked. Gas and or water getting into a cylinder and neither will compress!

I bet you're right, a blown head gasket could have filled the cylinders after it was shut off last.
 
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N9783K

New Member
Joined
Jul 5, 2010
Messages
10
Thanks for the help. svastano was correct. I started pulling the plugs and when I got the third plug out, it was obviously wet with antifreeze. So I tried cranking the engine and it turned right over. Looks like I'll be replacing head gaskets!
 
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