F100 starting problem

Hello all. New to the forum so be kind. Ok here goes recently got a 74 f100 shortbed w/a 360 as a toy. Runs pretty good. 2 problems... 1. After it sits and the engine completely cools down it has trouble starting, its wierd I turn the key and it sounds like the starter/flywheel turn but nothing happens. I have to let whatever is turning stop and turn the key again. I have to do this about 5-6 times then the engine finally starts. I dont know if it doesnt get a spark right away or the carb doesnt get gas right away or what. 2. When it does start it seems like the engine idles high for a long time. I was thinking maybe it could be a bad thermostat or something with the mechanical choke? Sorry if I miss explain something. Thanks all.

Welcome to the forum!

I had a 74 F100 with the same problem. I'd turn the starter and it would run, but the engine wouldn't turn over. Ended up being some missing teeth on the ring gear of the flywheel. Got it fixed for $150 but that was way back when. Probably more now. When the engine is shut off, it always stops on the same position which is the cylinder with the most compression. So, if you bump the starter a few times it will finally get to a position on the ring gear with some teeth.

If it runs too fast at cold startup the screw on the fast idle cam needs to be turned down some.

A problem well explained is a problem half solved. You done good.

Your problem no. 1 would be a bad starter drive, often called the starter bendix. You can replace the entire starter, or just replace the drive. Just the drive would only cost around ten dollars. If you do your own mechanic work and want to replace it yourself, post back and I will try and explain the procedure. IMPORTANT: I would fix the starter problem as soon as possible, or you'll end up with the flywheel problem Dave explained above. In other words you'll turn a relatively minor repair into a major repair, ie having to pull the transmission and related parts to replace the flywheel.

Thanks Davescort97 & Mechhound. I'll replace the starter and adjust the fast idle screw. I'll let you guys know how it turns out. You've both been great. To bad you guys arent local so I could buy you a beer.

Thanks guys the new starter worked great. Now on to the carb and my new no starting problem.

Thanks guys the new starter worked great. Now on to the carb and my new not starting problem.