351w
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Trailering
Joined: Sep 2022
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351w
I have a 1978 f-150 with a 351w, this is only a parts truck for my 1979 f-150, but just for fun I am trying to get engine to run, but not getting any spark to plugs, this engine has points not electronic ignition but their is a spark module on left inner fender this truck has been sitting for at least 4 years, engine does turn over any thoughts.??
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Joined: Jan 2025
Posts: 500
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From: White Bear Lake
Someone swapped the distributor out for a older ignition system then or the engine is not from that truck at all. Ford started using the duraspark electronic igntion in 73. I would make sure the coil is wired for a points ignition and not still tied into the duraspark module. If its completely disconnected then sand the points down a bit as they build corrosion after sitting. Make sure you have 12v at the coil with the ignition on. Make sure the ground for the distributor is good. And check for spark at the coil first to rule out cap rotor or wires If you still have no spark at the coil then I would suspect the coil or condenser to be bad. It's been years since I've even touched a car with a distributor let alone non electronic ignition so I'm probably missing a few steps but points ignition is extremely simple and generally doesn't have major failures.
-Dan F
-Dan F
Last edited by AppleFordParts; Oct 22, 2025 at 05:40 PM.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,830
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From: The Shenandoah Valley
I didn't think a 351W was even offered in a '78 F-150. Spark module as you call it is likely left over from the past, if a Motorcraft, I'd take it out and try it in the '79, might be a good spare.
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Joined: Jan 2025
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From: White Bear Lake
You raise a good point, I didn't even think about that. It was the tall deck Cleveland 351M that was in the trucks. The 351 Windsor wasn't offered until 83. I wonder if it even is a 351W?
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Joined: Dec 2023
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From: sussex county, nj
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Joined: Jan 2025
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From: White Bear Lake
Quickest way to tell a cleveland from a windsor is where the thermostat housing is. Front of intake or off the top of the block.
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