Distributor Ignition (DI) System Diagnosis

Distributor Ignition (DI) System Diagnosis

System Description

This system includes the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor, the camshaft position (CMP) sensor, the ignition coil with the ignition control module (ICM), the secondary wires, the spark plugs, and the circuit conductors and connectors.

The powertrain control module (PCM) controls the ignition system. The PCM monitors the input signals from various engine sensors. The PCM controls the dwell of the ignition primary coil, computes the desired spark timing and firing of the ignition system via an ignition control (IC) timing control circuit to the ignition control module.

The distributor ignition (DI) system diagnostic table assumes the following conditions:

* The battery is fully charged.
* There is adequate fuel in the fuel tank.
* The fuel delivery system is functional.

Diagnostic Aids

Engine mechanical conditions may prevent the distributor from rotating. Inspect the following conditions if the distributor rotor does not rotate:

* A broken distributor drive shaft
* A worn or broken distributor drive gear
* A worn or broken camshaft timing chain and gears

An intermittent may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation, or a wire broken inside the insulation. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Diagnostic Aids. If a repair is necessary, Refer to Wiring Repairs. Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Test Description

Step 1 - Step 9:

Step 10 - Step 19:

Step 20 - Step 31:

Step 32 - Step 47:

Step 48 - Step 50:

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
3. This step tests for a CKP signal to the PCM.
4. This step tests for an internally shorted CMP sensor.
9. This step tests for spark output at more than one spark plug wire. the J 26792 Spark Plug Tester requires a minimum of 25,000 volts to operate.
10. This step determines if spark is being delivered to the distributor cap.
20. This step tests if the PCM is providing a timing control signal to the ICM.
21. This step tests for a basic engine mechanical condition.