I think you mean it "Just doesn't start". Do you have spark to the plugs now? And it sounds like the pistons ARE moving, when you turn the flywheel by hand. A compressiom test will verify if the pistons and rings are good.. But after several other tries it has since stopped the backfiring and turns over smoothly, just doesn't crank.
Originally posted by WhoohooIt'saBoat:<br />[QB]why does everyone assume that I don't have the manual? <br /><br />Because some of your questions defy logic. <br /><br />Now seriously... take one thing at a time. <br /><br />Get the starter fixed, then pump up the ball, choke it, and see what it does under a "normal" starting attempt. If it has a distributor, make sure the cap is all clean and dry inside and that the spring loaded carbon button is good.<br /><br />A broken flywheel key is rare, it's not like a lawnmower.<br /><br />-W
Overkill $$. Usually a good cleaning is all it takes, unless a wire is frayed / broken or the cap is cracked.<br /><br />-WOriginally posted by WhoohooIt'saBoat:<br />BTW Clams I replaced the distributor cap, plugs and all the plug/high tension wires after redoing the water pump and fuel systems before attempting to crank the motor to eliminate these as possible problems.