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An igintion module problem maybe?

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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 10:12 AM
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An igintion module problem maybe?

Just finished a fresh (and complete) rebuild on my truck. Runs absolutely great but.........once in a while it does just flat-out die like I turned the key off. Not a fuel delivery problem, I'm sure. I did notice that the ignition module had been replaced by the first owner (aftermarket name on it) and by accident I had my hand on it while changing my plugs and noticed all three attaching screws are loose. I have a REALLY long road trip ahead of me and don't need to get stranded. I figure 24.99 was pretty good insurance and I'd just replace it. Whaddya guys think? Also does anyone know of the resistance specs through both the primary and secondary coil windings? I managed to drop it when re-assembling my engine and now it have a very small dent it the bottom end of it. Also are they prone to thermal shorts ? Thanks in advance.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 10:19 AM
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A lot of autoparts stores will test those for free. Be sure they do it a few times so that it has a chance to heat up (some will only fail when hot). I usually drive it there, unbolt it in the parking lot, and bring it in, so that it's at operating temp.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 11:49 AM
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When it dies, feel the module and coil. If either are hot, that's your most likely culprit.
As for the module mounting bolts being loose, not an issue. The inner fender is plastic.....
I'd test the suspect parts, rather than just blindly replace stuff. At the same time, check all the connections for looseness or corrosion.
As for the aftermarket modules, I'd rather take a chance on a 30 year old factory unit from a junkyard, but that's just me.......
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 11:50 AM
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Sounds like good advice

Originally Posted by AbandonedBronco
A lot of autoparts stores will test those for free. Be sure they do it a few times so that it has a chance to heat up (some will only fail when hot). I usually drive it there, unbolt it in the parking lot, and bring it in, so that it's at operating temp.
Thanks AB, this is driving me nuts and I need some reliability real soon. Makes sense too. Usually the truck has been running awhile when it cuts-out. (and aftermarket module anyway). Do you know if the coil is temp sensitive too? I think I have the resistance values in my manual but haven't looked yet. Just don't like the idea that I dropped it and left about a 1/2" x 1/2" dent on the bottom of the can. Hoping I didn't screw-up the primary windings.
Mike
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 11:56 AM
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Originally Posted by Rogue_Wulff
When it dies, feel the module and coil. If either are hot, that's your most likely culprit.
As for the module mounting bolts being loose, not an issue. The inner fender is plastic.....
I'd test the suspect parts, rather than just blindly replace stuff. At the same time, check all the connections for looseness or corrosion.
As for the aftermarket modules, I'd rather take a chance on a 30 year old factory unit from a junkyard, but that's just me.......
Thanks Rogue but my 77 has steel inner fender-wells where the module bolts to. Wondered if the module was ground-critical like the regulator for instance ?
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 12:04 PM
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I forgot the 73-79 trucks had steel inner fenders. Still, the module should work even unbolted from the fender, as the 80-86 trucks use the same module, and don't have any additional grounding provisions at the mounting locations.
I still say check both for heat issues, along with the integrity of the connections.
And, yes, the coil *could* be damaged from dropping it.
 
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Old Mar 1, 2011 | 12:31 PM
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If your ignition module tests bad, I agree with Rogue. The $30 job ignition modules are China ripoffs that don't stand a chance against a 30 year old original Ford from the JY.

((That being said, I went through 4 at the junkyard that all tested bad before I gave in and bought a new one. ))

If you do though, definitely get one made in the US from either Ford, or the step up version at autoparts stores (usually around $90). You're rolling the dice on how long the China brand ones will last.


EDIT: Just looked online. Rockauto.com wants $73 for an original Motorcraft ICM.
 
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