i have a 1979 Firebird (formula) 301 ci. 4 bbl. 4 speed w/ hurst shifter. from what i understand it a rare car...only 1700 or so made and it has alot of trans am options. it has a little body rust (not bad) but when i bought it it started right up, and on day it just cranked and cranked and cranked.... i called the guy i bought it from..." it needs a carb..."... but then he moved outta state... so do you think he telling the truth? i'm a novice wrencher...and i dunno much..yet.. :-) so will a new carb fix it?





or is it jus

 

Well as long as it not a computer conrolled car (which yours isn't) there is two things that won't let it start Spark and Gas. So it maybe a carb. so just pour some gas down the carb. (about 1/4 - 1/2 cup) and see if it starts if it does then it's a carb or fuel pump. If that doesn't work check spark and timing if that doesn't it is a piece of crap.


Good luck, Garrett

 

are we forgetting about air and compression?

 

try starting fluid instead, 3ft flames out the carb aren't good for anyone. You're right, your car is rare, it still has the 301 in it

You can check for fuel delivery by having someone crank it & look into the carb.
Also check fuel filter

Also do the screwdriver thing & check for spark. If none, pop the cap & make sure rotor didn't break, then get ignition module checked for free.

Check wires going to distributor.

 

if the engine turns and you have good compression (you can get a compression guage for $15 at harbor frieght tools) , then you havn't much to worry about.

welcome to the wonderful world of wrenching!!

get yourself a haynes or chiltons repair manual, those are the best books to start with. After awhile, you won't even need to use them.