Ignition testing
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New User
Joined: Jan 2008
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Ignition testing
Hello people. I have just taken possession of my dream 56. The wiring in it does not look to safe so I have decided to only wire the ignition and starter to see if it runs. I got it running this afternoon but now it won't start. I think that I am not getting any spark. I had previously put in new points, condenser, coil and ballast resistor. I am running from only the battery with no generator, alternator or voltage regulator. If the key is in the on position [not start] should the negative contact on the coil illuminate a test lamp? What areas can I diagnose with only a test light until I get my multi function ohm meter back on Sunday? Thanks for your help. Peter
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 658
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From: N.W. Mo.
Turn the engine until the points are open then test for voltage at the points. If you have voltage there then check for a spark from the coil wire to ground when you momentarily make and break contact across the two parts of the points. Just use a screwdriver tip to make momentary contact. If you get a spark but don't get one when it is all assembled and cranking you probably have poor contact at the points. Dirty or burnt contacts. If you have been running it with 12 volts to the coil for very long you might have burnt the point contacts.
Post Fiend
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,641
Likes: 21
From: Poway, Ca.
HI 56wannabe!
Welcome to FTE - it's the greatest.
OBTW you are now to be know as 56isme!!!!!
I guess bad wiring is my biggest pet peave - especially since I've seen so much [just plain] BAD wiring used during these restorations.
When youget the gumption, strip all that bad stuff out of there and get back to us. We can walk you through a rewire (that in these trucks was fairly simple and austere) and that will save you a lot of headaches!
Again, welcome and enjoy!!!!
Julie!
Welcome to FTE - it's the greatest.
OBTW you are now to be know as 56isme!!!!!
I guess bad wiring is my biggest pet peave - especially since I've seen so much [just plain] BAD wiring used during these restorations.
When youget the gumption, strip all that bad stuff out of there and get back to us. We can walk you through a rewire (that in these trucks was fairly simple and austere) and that will save you a lot of headaches!
Again, welcome and enjoy!!!!
Julie!
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