253 wont start / run

[damienengland]

Hey all, gave up and decided to use another 253 I had. Pulled the manifold and no cross over hole, but one on the heads. Would that have caused problems?

I think the exhaust crossover will help warm the inlet manifold for better fuel burn when the engine is cold and also allow the mechanical choke heater to operate if you've got one...might be wrong on the fuel burn bit, but i'm convinced i've read it someplace.

[Sandaro]

Not sure which hole you're referring to, some don't line up and just blank off. Problem would have been as identified above if you didn't rewire specifically for the electronic dizxy

[maxsandman]

Modifying wiring for electronic dizzy is definately the first thing to look at

[Wombat7051]

Ok so I fixed it.
1. Timing chain out by one link. Always remember it is dot to bright link not dot to dot and nine links apart
2. Quadrajets need vacuum to set idle screws, no vacuum no adjustment
3. Quadrajet adjustments and settings need to be done in gear in an auto or it will stall
4. Buy a vacuum gauge to set timing and mixture invaluable
5. Ran a relay and fitted the electronic distributor, it is much happier
All in all I learnt a lot from this experience. Now he has a car might move back on to the first van.

Thanks everyone for your help