Ok I have a '73 with a 390. The 390 that is in it came out of a '76. I kept the ignition system that was in the '73, when I put in new plugs when swapping motors I set the gap to the '73 specs as the ignition system is from the '73, that system was modified years ago to remove the points (can't remember the after market brand of the system that was put in).

Well after I swaped the motors it ran well. I was happy, but the carb needed a rebuild so I didn't drive it much and parked it for a month, starting it from time to time. Well one day I went out to start it and it started to fire but then died! Dosn't want to pop anymore. I pushed it in my shop and I was able to get it to start for a second or so with starter fluid and I messed with the timing. Now it dosn't want to pop again.

I don't have anyone around to hit the starter while I hold a spark plug to the block to check spark. I did have a harbor freight spark plug light but seems like the bulb just lit up a little bit, should it flash brightly?

I'm starting to suspect the coil but I don't want to spend $$$ on replacing parts. I checked all the usual stuff and it seems fine via visual inspection.

Any suggestions? Can 'shucks' test my coil? I'm going to get a new cap and rotor as mine is a little worn anyways. I don't know if I will get wires as they seem great.


Thanks guys - I'm very frustrated with this rig right now...

 

I have found a remote starter switch to be a very useful tool when working by myself on things like that..

 

I also use a remote starter switch. In a pinch you could just use a jumper wire too.