1954 Gravely L Model

Allisandy · Jul 7, 2019

I recently purchased a 1954 Gravely L Model tractor. The
tractor runs well. Has plenty of spark and power for mowing.
The down side is starting cold or hot. If I put a small amount of
gas in the cylinder, replace the plug, pull the choke, it fires up
on the first or second pull and will continue to run until I shut it
down.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

jeffcat · Jul 7, 2019

jeffcat · Jul 7, 2019

Start here and watch the video. My model "L" is set to fire a TINY fraction just before TDC. That makes them so much easier to get started. Too far advanced and they will kick back but just right is what you need . The correct way to start them using the tryed and true strap I can explain latter. Watch the video first. The timing is critical on these. Also this argument has gone round and round but I only use Hi-Test gas in everything. Regular is just so much crap.

Allisandy · Jul 7, 2019

Thanks for reply. Not seeing video.

Bob Collins · Jul 7, 2019

I don't see a video but after years of fighting with it, my LI starts best with full choke and wide open throttle, if another pull is needed the choke must be opened part way or it will flood. My L starts nearly the same way. I am sure Jeff's video will help, hope I can see it too, still lots I don't know.

Bret4207 · Jul 8, 2019

Is your choke working? Is the flap even there? If it won't start with the choke but does when primed with gas that the first thing I'd check. Timing is critical as noted above, but real easy to set- Pull head and set piston 1/8" before TDC on compression stroke, line up mag marks and lock her down. That's it. Always pull the through a cycle gently to ensure a vale isn't stuck first. Then use the strap and pull it over, you don't have to pull it "fast" to start if the impulse on the mag is working. In fact, if you try to pull it "fast" you'll end up breaking the strap or pulling a muscle!

jeffcat · Jul 9, 2019

Here it is. You should really not have to pull the head. This isn't rocket science. If you want to watch the pistion go up and down....when you know the piston is very close to the top pour enough oil in the cylinder so you can see the top of the oil. Just watch the oil go up and down as you gently turn the pulley back and forth.
Gravely time

jeffcat · Jul 9, 2019

Here are a couple of screen shots from the actual Gravely books.

Brian G. NY · Jul 17, 2019

I see that Gravely in your last picture has the combo battery cover/tool box.
I had never seen one of those 'til I bought one of my parts machines 15 years ago.
Surprisingly, the tool box is in very good shape and not all rusty like you would expect from sitting right on top of the battery.

1954 Gravely L Model

Allisandy

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jeffcat

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jeffcat

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Allisandy

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Bob Collins

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Bret4207

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jeffcat

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jeffcat

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Brian G. NY

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