Not Running When Belt Engaged

[imelmo]

Tried to make our first test hits with my Nephew in his junior dragster today. The car started and idled fine so we took it outside. Then it would kill right after putting the belt on if the brake is pressed or we hold the car still. Seems like it would stay running if I let it roll. Also noticed there was fuel coming out of the air filter. New clutch system and new carb. Where should I start looking?

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[WILD BILL]

Need to know what type of clutch motor and carb we're talking about here

2 things I can think of off the top of my head.

First is the belt being way to tight could cause that, The second being the drive clutch engaging at to low an RPM can also.

Fire it up with the belt off and watch to see if the primary snaps in and stays in while idling around 3500 to 3800 RPM. If it does, you need to address the clutch.

If not Loosen the belt tension a bit. You want it tight enough that the car will creep when the brake is released (no throttle input) but not so tight that it will squeal.


As for the carb, First thing I would do is take it apart and give it a good cleaning.

[drags3078]

I was thinking belt to tight ( center to center ) also

Could the fuel from the air cleaner be from the engine stopping ?? Does carburetor sit level or at a angle ??

how long of a warm up did you give it before you tried to take off ??

[slowgoat]

Seen this a few times, more than likely the belt is too wide

[Jr_Uncle]

I had this happen once, I had a spacer behind the drive clutch and forgot to put it back in causing the belt alignment to be way off.

[Pool Man]

I had this happen once, I had a spacer behind the drive clutch and forgot to put it back in causing the belt alignment to be way off.

This was certainly one of the things that came to mind for me.