Weird no start problem...HELP!!
MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 10,386
Likes: 35
From: Austin, TX
If the light is blinking, then the module is firing the coil. That means the distributor, pickup module, and associated wiring is in working order. This is a good thing.
Pull off the distributor cap and look at the contacts underneath, and inspect the rotor.
Pull off the distributor cap and look at the contacts underneath, and inspect the rotor.
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 3,940
Likes: 8
From: Southern Oregon Coast
Just a thought, but since the coil appears to be firing - could it be possible the distributor lock-down came loose and the distributor rotated enough to throw the timing off and cause it not start?
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Effort, PA
Are you definitely not getting spark at the plug? Did you take a peek in the carb and move the throttle to see if fuel is getting in there?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,287
Likes: 17
From: San Carlos, CA
It looks like FMC400 is giving you some excellent suggestions on troubleshooting your ignition system but I would like to offer up a quick test for spark. Disconnect one of the spark plug wires and place it on the end of a screwdriver and hold it next to ground so that the screwdriver shaft and ground is about a millimeter apart. Have some one crank over the engine. If you see (Or feel) spark you will know at least you're firing. Next test your timing and fuel.
Good Luck!
Good Luck!
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 851
Likes: 0
From: Longvalley, SD
The day that it did this it was running great...no problems at all. I shut the truck off and went inside the house for awhile, came back out and it would not even attempt to start. The dizzy hold down is tight and I checked to make sure that the rotor is turning when the enging is cranking. Any thoughts?
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MSEE
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 10,386
Likes: 35
From: Austin, TX
Great suggestion NBC-Steve. This would be another good test, to make sure the spark is actually getting to the plugs. After that, I'd move on to fuel - what specifically have you done to check that it's getting fuel?
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 851
Likes: 0
From: Longvalley, SD
I had a buddy help and I have confirmed that the spark plugs are NOT getting spark. I am getting fuel. So what now? Distributor I assume?
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 308
Likes: 0
From: Southern NM
I would try checking the resistance of your coil wire.The resistance should not exceed 5000 ohms per foot.Also check the resistance of the coil wire through the contact in the distibutor cap.You haven't mentioned this, but test the resistance of the wiring to the magnetic pickup in the distibutor.This test is more accurate when the engine is at operating temperature but might show something none the less.Pull the connection apart at the distibutor and measure the resistance between the orange and purple wires.This reading should be between 400 and 800 ohms.Then connect your multimeter between the orange wire and ground,and then do the same with the purple wire.These readings should be at least 70,000 ohms or more.If any of the readings vary in the test,the probable culprit is the magnetic pickup or stator if you will.Also check the ground wire and ground screw inside the distibutor for an open.Look very close at the cap and rotor once again something is interrupting the secondary voltage from the ignition.Post back and let us know what you find.
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 8,261
Likes: 15
From: Big Sky Country
Way back in post #15 i too recommended the OP test the pickup, not sure if he ever did or not...