Starting the engine

[shawn_and_his_kaiser]

My 1951 Kaiser Special is a really hard and slow start, not to mention the negative battery cable gets really hot. Ideas? Suggestions? Is there anything I can add or do differently? Most of the electrical components under the hood have been replaced already. All original otherwise.
Thank you in advance,
Shawn

[kfnut]

Make sure you have good heavy gauge battery cables . Good , clean and tight connections on those cables . Don't forget the motor to body ground cable . Have your starter cleaned and serviced by a good starter shop . I had the same issue with a 47 Studebaker M16 truck a couple of years ago . When doing all the above , I thought I had a 12 volt system it started so fast .

[dpledger]

Agree with above- hot cable means high current draw or high resistance somewhere. Make sure you have cables made for 6 volt systems- those designed for later 12 volt ones don't have the current carrying capacity. could be a short in starter, but I'd bet on the cable.

[shawn_and_his_kaiser]

I cleaned out the starter and the generator, new brushes. The black cable appears newer, replaced the ground. Nothing... Currently turns over, no start. Hot black cable still.

[kfnut]

Sounds like your " Black cable " is too small . Get a heavy gauge cable at a tractor or large truck supply place .

[Bobm90]

I agree I had the same cranking problems with my 54, Someone replaced the cables with ones designed for 12 volts, 6 volt systems require a larger  gauge cable, mine came from Rock auto and now it spins and starts fast with no hot battery cables.

[shawn_and_his_kaiser]

Awesome... I really appreciate this! I'll update you on the progress.

[Terry T]

goto your local tractor supply stores, eg., TSC

old tractors were 6 volt and many positive ground--- strap is sized accordingly

[shawn_and_his_kaiser]

I ordered 2 new, correct battery cables.. Going to be cleaning out the sediment bulb and fuel filter soon. Hopefully this will help, currently still won't start. I've been having trouble with the fuel side of things since I changed out the fuel pump, but it's been running since. Not sure really... Running out of things to replace under the hood.

[Vagabond Russ]

I ordered 2 new, correct battery cables.. Going to be cleaning out the sediment bulb and fuel filter soon. Hopefully this will help, currently still won't start. I've been having trouble with the fuel side of things since I changed out the fuel pump, but it's been running since. Not sure really... Running out of things to replace under the hood.

Six volt systems should use #1 gauge cables.  Be sure to clean the battery post and cable connections with a wire brush.