Technical Engine turns slightly when key turned to run

Ok this might be an oversight on my part but I've never encountered it before. Got my Ford inline 6 set up in my 30 Ford, rewired everything, Ford duraspark, ignition switch from another project (used/wildcard). Starts and runs like a top, no issues.

Now the weird part is twice now, (after sitting a few days) I'll go to start it and when key is turned from off to run, not start, the engine will kick. Not crank but like 1/8 of revolution of fan. Keep in mind I have not cranked it at this point. Almost just like a blip when your bumping a motor to get to tdc. Crank it, starts fine. Wondering if anyone else has encountered this.

And now that I've typed all this out and re-read it, Im thinking I should replace the old unknown ignition switch first. I'll make sure to video next time and see if it happens again

 

Ignition switch would be my first culprit

possibly starter solenoid , the tips touching just slightly ?

 

Does the starter engage or just the engine kicks? Pull the coil wire off of the cap and put a test plug on it, turn the key to run and see if you get a spark.

 

This was common on model T Fords if the motor stopped on a compression stroke when the key was turned on and the coil fired the motor would kick. some times when it was hotted the motor stopped just after dead center you could move the spark leaver and it would fire up without hitting the starter and some times it would turn backwards I am sure that's what you are experiencing.

 

Does the starter actually engage when key is turned to run?
Or does the engine just turn a little? If so its more likely extra fuel igniting when ignition energized spark to witch cylinder is at top dead center ,

 

Are you running a dynamo? The can act as a mini starter motor if the regulator is stuck!

 

Not exactly the same but similar I had a 64 panhead foot clutch hand shift for forty years, my son has it now, but it had a original dual point distributor would occasionally do that and rarely would fire off and start if the engine was warm, aways make sure it was in neutral or the clutch was in when I would turn the ignition on.

 

Yep. I'll bet this is the case. I have a buddy with a stock T. I have seen him start it this way several times. It is crank only. No starter. So, he tries this every time before cranking. It doesn't always work, but often enough that is worth it to him to try it.

 

When you turn the key to the on position the ignition may fire once. If everything is just right the cylinder will fire and kick the engine over a bit. It happens more than you might think.

 

Good question, ill pay more attention next time. It was so surprising last couple times I didnt notince

 

I feel like this is the case, i'll pay closer attention next time

 

Nope, just an alternator from an 80 something ford