Can't get engine to turn on 68 CJ5

I am not sure what the problem is. The jeep started giving me problems starting, but faithfully started after the 2nd or 3rd time. This morning, while attempting to start the jeep, it started to make a new sound. It sounded like it was struggling to turn to motor. We replaced to starter (first time doing it), and it helped but the motor would still only turn once and then would almost tighten up and the fly-wheel could no longer turn. My neighbor told me about one of his friends who had a similar problem and never figured it out.

Can anyone offer me some more promising news?

Thank you,
Ryan

 

Battery load tested? Solenoid good? Cables good? (sometimes corrosion can be present on battery/starter cables UNDER the red/black plastic insulation, cheap to replace to eliminate the problem) Connections clean and free of corrosion?

That should get you started.

 

Stuck valves? when was the last time it ran?

 

Is it vapor locked? Also make sure it hasn't jumped time.

 

Liquid (fuel or coolant, etc.) in a cylinder will lock up a motor. Maybe a head gasket problem?

Pete

 

Battery.
Change the battery.

I've run into this on my Jeep and other older vehicles. Automotive batteries don't respond well to being completely drained, frozen (it happens), or excessively clamped-down (don't ask), or over charged (don;t ask either), or cooked...(okay, don't ask about any of it).
Even when jumped, a dead batt will just kinda turn the motor and "bind" (just like you described).
Get a new battery in there (or swap a good one in from a buddy's rig) and I bet things will be different.

The next problem to deal with is why the battery went south. If your battery is fours years old or more, I think you got the expected life span from it. Replace it. They do go bad (something about deposits accumulating inside the cells from the bottom upwards until they touch the lead..then no go).
Then check the alt to see that you're getting full charge (14.4 volts, right??) when running and charging. On a stock '68, it could very well be the voltage regulator.

So...
I'd start with trying another battery that you know is good. Then, regardless of the outcome, check the charging system.

Post back with updates.
Hope that made sense and helps!

 

I worked on this jeep today and put new starter and solinoid on it.Batter is good all connections cleaned it has plenty juice but can't turn the motor over,I am thinking about the valuves,head gasket or worn or damanged flywheel.I have not had time to pull plugs or recheck timing (wedding tommorow) so it will be Sun when I get back to it.just wanted to thank everybody for ther input will keep Ya'll informed and will be glad to help anyone that needs it.Thanks a lot.
bert

 

How do you know the battery is good? Have you tried swapping it out?

 

Dude, you gotta git yer priorities straight. JEEP work supercedes any and all social events unless said event is JEEP related. Being new here, we'll let it slide this time. Next time your mancard might get suspended.

 

It has been running for past month with no. problems.

 

We tested the battery with a voltage meter. Is this not sufficient?

 

No, not sufficient. A battery can test fine just sitting there. The battery must be "load tested". Take it to your local auto parts store, they can perform the test there. Myself and others here have been through this, trust us on this one. I would also most strongly recommend you replace battery cables.

If the engine was running fine the last time it was shut down, chances are 99.99999% that this is an electrical problem. There is no reason to tear into the motor for valve work or a new flywheel.

 

What you describe almost sounds like timing,check your distributor and see if it is loose.

 

I just wanted to thank everyone for their input. I will let you know how it all works out.

 

I got her to fire up this AM and drove around a bit.checked plugs,timing,battery again and battery was low so I swaped it for a new & bigger battery and she finnally with the new battery and My truck putting juice to also she fired up.Got to do brakes now.Iwant to thank everybody for there input and if I can help please feel free to send Me a message.Thanks again Your a great bunch of Guys & Gals.STAY ON THE RUBBER SIDE!!!!!!!
Bert &(Ryan)