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TR6 TR6 hard starting

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Since the condenser is what amplifies the spark from the coil, when it fails poor cold starting is the symptom, since it takes more energy to ignite the poorly atomized gasoline than the system can provide . Starting fluid with its lower flash point ignites easier so isn't a definitive test for a fuel problem ! I've also had condensers fail when warm giving misfire and backfire symptoms but typically in the colder climates they cause poor starting.
 
That makes sense. A pocket-sized repair manual I got many years ago said an occasional backfire was the sign of a "gradually failing condenser". Since I started driving in 1949, I never had a condenser fail - but there's always a first time. Can you test a condenser like a coil?
 
Latest news. After 3 days of sitting in an unheated garage, and hampered by an old battery that cranks slowly, partially because of the 50 weight oil in the crankcase, it started in 30 seconds which I deemed acceptable. Nevertheless I checked the coil (3.8 ohms) and replaced the condenser. It started right up; I ran it up to temperature and discovered a slight coolant leak where I had spliced together two different sized heater hoses, tightened the clamps and put it back in the garage with a 6-amp battery charger connected. I think this battery is finally on the way out after about 8 years. It owes me nothing. I'm going to stick with the stock starter motor unless someone tells me I'd be much better off with the updated starters sold by Moss & TRF.
 
Hey - congrats on the faster start.

So you actually didn't change anything, to get it to start this time in 30 seconds?

Tom M.
 
Nothing. I did adjust the points a tad. One thing I did notice today. When I wiped my hand underneath the float bowls, the front one was dry, the rear one was damp. I wiped it off and we'll see after the car sits for a few days if the dampness comes back.I don't think these carbs have ever been rebuilt but I'll check the invoices I got from a P.O. when I bought the car.I dread fooling with these things. Ignition, si', "carburettors" no.
 
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