Classic/Antique Car Repair: starting engine, starter solenoid, spark plug wire

Question
QUESTION: on my 47 plymouth,I put in rebuilt carb,fuel pump, points, rotor, plugs. When I went to start it, it just kept turning over. I gave it a shot of starting fluid.(I know now that's not a good idea). Then it wouldn't stop starting. The starter motor kept turning over, even when I turned off ignition.  Panic time.  Then I heard a loud pop and smoke come from carb.  Finally it stopped turning over.  What happened.  Did I ruin the engine?   Ed

ANSWER: Oh boy. Well the first thing that you will need is probably a new starter solenoid. In cranking for a long time the contact points in the solenoid will stick and melt together and keep the starter engaged. Then I would recommend a compression test as that will tell you if there is damage to the valves, pistons, or rings. After that redo all of the work that you have done. Make sure the points are installed and gapped correctly, that the plugs are correctly gapped and that the plug wires are routed to the proper plug in the right firing order. Good luck.
Brad

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for quick reply.  I'll do as you suggested.  After all that, how do I static time the engine? Do I need any special tools or equipment?   Ed Parauka

Answer
Ok Ed here we go. Once you get everything replaced and checked remove number one spark plug. Cover the hole with your thumb and bump the engine over until you feel compression. Watch the timing mark in the front pulley and line up the 0 mark with the pointer. Now turn the distributor until the points are just opening. The rotor should be pointed at the number one spark plug wire in the cap. The engine should be timed to with a degree or two and should run well.
Brad