Rayvan

Hey guys, my 1980 vette Olivia is acting bratty cause I haven't tended to her for 2 months.

There are 2 odd things going on I could use your help on:
#1 The car needs a jump every single time to start, even though I leave it running for a while to try to get the electricity flowing

When I try to start it up without a jump, there is no ignition sound, everything is silent, the only thing that starts up are the electrical elements like radio. But when I jump it, it takes a second to power up unless it sits for a week, then I need to jump it again for 15-30 min.

Is that an indicator that the alternator is busted?

#2 There is light smoke coming from the manifold areas on both left and right side of the engine area. I'm going to check if it's just missing antifreeze that could be causing later. This may also be a symptom of sitting around for a long time without letting her heat up.

I shall be forever grateful for your advice on these matters gentlemen and ladies.


Ivan

dar322

my guess is a dead battery. and the smoke issue...maybe a leak such as oil or anti freeze.

revitup

Sounds like the battery isn't charging. Is the alternator light on? How old is the battery?

Shark Racer

If the car runs and drives, it's not likely your alternator, although it could be in such a state that the alternator provides just enough current to keep the car running, it's more likely that you have a battery with a dead cell or a few.

You can get your battery load tested at most autoparts stores. What does the volt meter in the car say with the engine off and with the engine running?

lvmyvt76

DEAD cell in the battery, won'tt hold a charge, load test will show this.

Ibanez540r

#1 - Bad battery

#2 - Check your valve cover gaskets.

Rayvan

Thank you all for shortcutting me to the resolution. I'll replace the battery myself asap and the gaskets...I'll just leave those to my mechanic.