Troubleshooting

Engine Cranks But Does Not Start
1. Check distributor rotor and cap. If rotor and cap are satisfactory, proceed to step 2. If rotor and/or cap is defective, replace as required.
2. Check ignition coil, if ignition coil is satisfactory, proceed to step 3. If ignition coil is defective, replace coil as required. Check primary and secondary circuits for proper connections. Check coil for an open circuit, replace coil as required.
3. Check high tension cables. Properly connect any disconnected cable as necessary. If cables are excessively worn and/or frayed, replace as necessary.
4. Check spark plugs. Ensure plugs are properly gapped. Replace damaged spark plugs as required.
5. Check ignition timing, adjust as necessary.
6. Check valve timing, repair as necessary.
7. Conduct spark test, if necessary, as follows:
NOTE: Before proceeding with spark test, ensure to cover spark plug wires with a suitable insulating material to prevent shock before cranking the engine.
a. Disconnect spark plug cable from any spark plug.
b. Hold end of spark plug cable close to engine block while cranking engine. Check to see if spark jumps across the gap.
c. If spark jumps across the gap, check ignition timing, spark plugs, engine compression and fuel lines for restrictions.
d. If there is no spark, check for shorted primary coil, incorrect distributor air gap, burned distributor cap points, open or loosely connected primary coil circuit electrical circuits.

Engine Runs Rough/Engine Misses
1. Check distributor cap and rotor for excessive wear and/or damage. Replace cap and/or rotor as necessary.
2. Check distributor lead wire. Replace wire if necessary.
3. Check distributor shaft.
4. Check spark plug wires for excessive wear or damage. Replace wires as necessary.
5. Check spark plugs for excessive fouling and/or damage. Replace spark plugs as necessary.

No Spark
1. Check spark plugs wires for excessive wear and/or damage.
2. Check spark plugs. Ensure spark plugs are correctly gapped.
3. Check igniter (module).
4. Check distributor, distributor cap and rotor. Replace worn or damage parts as required.
5. Check ignition coil. Replace coil, if necessary.

Engine Knocks
1. Check ignition timing. If timing is satisfactory, proceed to step 2. If timing is excessively advanced, adjust timing as necessary.
2. Check spark plugs for an excessively hot operating condition. If a hot condition exists, install a colder type spark plug.
3. Check distributor governor spring and pin hole in governor. Connect or replace governor spring assembly and governor pin, if necessary.

Engine Lacks Power
1. Check ignition timing. Adjust timing, if necessary.
2. Check spark plugs. Clean fouled spark plugs and re-gap, if necessary. Replace excessively worn and/or damaged spark plugs as required.