Wiring/Alternator issue

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May 28, 2013 | 02:58 PM

jpvegas

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Wiring/Alternator issue

Question for you geniuses. I converted to a 1-wire alternator in my '73 F250. Got rid of the wires that ran to the regulator since the new one has an internal regulator and rewired every else back up. The truck will turn over but doesn't ignite.

What could I have missed?

Thanks a million.

JP

May 28, 2013 | 04:31 PM

fmc400

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From: Austin, TX

The alternator has nothing to do with the ignition system. What do you mean the truck doesn't "ignite"? Are you saying that you don't have spark? How did you check for spark? Did this issue exist before the alternator swap? Please answer all questions and be very specific.

May 28, 2013 | 05:00 PM

jpvegas

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Quote:

Originally Posted by fmc400

Sorry, my title was misleading and I'm being too vague. I know its not an alternator issue, it just occurred after i did the alternator replacement. It was firing up just fine before I did the work. After wiring up the new alternator the starter gets moving but the truck doesn't fire up so I worried I got rid of a wire I needed.

So I suppose I do need to test for spark or gas getting to where it needs to go so the truck will start but I'd be surprised if anything changed while the truck just sat there.

May 28, 2013 | 07:12 PM

fmc400

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From: Austin, TX

Got it. Yes, you'll need to check for spark and fuel first.

May 29, 2013 | 02:44 PM

jpvegas

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Quote:

Originally Posted by fmc400

Got it. Yes, you'll need to check for spark and fuel first.

Now I will reveal how much of a newbie I really am. What is the most efficient way to check for spark and fuel?

Thanks!

May 29, 2013 | 03:08 PM

Fordboy88

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the best way to check spark is a "spark checker". It plugs inline of one of your plug wires and you can see it jump across the terminal. you could also pull a plug,ground the electrode and turn it over and watch the spark happen on the plug(i have got shocked a few times doing this so hold it with pliers, its also harder to see the spark sometimes). For fuel just pull you air cleaner off and look into the carb while you cycle the throttle, you should see the accelerator pump shoot fuel down into the carb. did you just get rid of the wires going to the voltage regulator?