any ideas as to why my zephyr refuses to start when the engine is hot? i have to leave it 10 minutes or so to cool down then it fires no trouble. no problem at all starting from cold. has only developed over the last 18 months or so, was always ok. thanks

derek williams, April 2009

I have a 61 Mk2 and it happened to me once after idling for some time and engine temperature went up. Turned out to be a vapour lock. Make sure your heat shield gasket between carby and manifold is in good condition.

Terry, May 2009

Hi Derek,had same problem with my 1962 zephyr after rebuilding the motor,also o/haul the std starter at the same time,talked to a few mates in the know and fixed the problem my fitting a roadrunner hi torque startermotor from pro start in new zealand .and works a great!!!! i hope this helps

zcar62, May 2009

when hot with air filter assy removed ,have a look down carb venturi to check if fuel is weeping into manifold - if so either float height is incorrect or float valve not closing, both could give symptoms like trying to start it hot with choke out !

k, April 2009

the problem with old fords is that the design is just basic. there are 2 possibilities and 2 solutions mate first of all check the timing it sounds to advanced to me and this will cause your engine to run too hot, The distributers in old fords are known to lose thier position i.e slip now and again as the tightening bolts which are at the base of the distributer are not very good,
Once timing has been set this should be ok
Secondly check if your thermostat is working properly and it isnt stuck if! If need be you can fit a lower temperture release thermostat so that it opens to the rest of the radiator and circulates quicker hope this helps you mate

Ian mechanic, April 2009