Engine cranks, no spark...

Brendann99

Brendann99

Cadet
Joined
May 10, 2009
Messages
8
I have an 87 2.3 OMC Ford.

First time trying to start it this year. The motor cranks and cranks away but it never catches at all.

I can see fuel getting in the carb. My guess is it's a spark issue. To test I tried taking a spark plug and wire out and holding it to the block while someone was cranking and got no spark.

I had a tune up kit sitting around so I put in new points and condenser and still nothing. My next guess is the coil but I'm not in the habit of just throwing parts at something. Is there a way to test the coil? Or any other ideas on what to check or test?

I'm mildly mechanically inclined. I don't mind gettin dirty and turning wrenches but I'm pretty inexperienced so any help would be appreciated.
 
S

szuwar

Cadet
Joined
Mar 17, 2009
Messages
7
Re: Starting problem...

Re: Starting problem...

is your safety clip in your dash
 
Brendann99

Brendann99

Cadet
Joined
May 10, 2009
Messages
8
Re: Starting problem...

Re: Starting problem...

A little more info.

Using a test light. If I touch the "I" side of the solenoid the light does light, but very dim. probably less than half as bright as if I were to just touch it to the lead coming straight from the battery. I dont have a multimeter to check voltage or anything but I know it's not pushing 12V. Same thing touching it to the positive side of the coil. So, it's getting power but not enough. Why not?

I'm thinking possibly the shift assist module is malfunctioning. If I understand how it works it reduces power to the ignition system but doesn't completely kill it?

Either that or a bad solenoid?

Thoughts?
 
bruceb58

bruceb58

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 5, 2006
Messages
30,545
Re: Engine cranks, no spark...

Buy a multimeter. A test light is pretty much useless for what you need to know. With the points open, measure the voltage at the positive side of the coil...should be 12V. With the points closed measure again...should be around 7V or so.

What is the condition of your cap? Clean inside and out and make sure it is absolutely dry. Use a hairdryer to dry it out and inside the distributor if there is any moisture.
 
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