Ignition Control Module: Testing and Inspection

INSPECTION

NOTE: This is a test of the ignition circuit. As there is no component test of the Igniter itself, a process of elimination is used to find if the Igniter is at fault.

1. Using a voltmeter, back probe Engine Control Module (ECM) terminals IGT and E1.
2. Crank or start engine and measure voltage. To prevent flooding during testing, don't crank engine for more than 1 or 2 seconds at a time.

Standard Voltage: 0.7 - 1.0V

3. If no voltage reading was obtained in step 2, recheck voltage, substituting body ground for terminal E1.
4. If voltage was present in step 3, inspect wiring and connection between ECM terminal E1 and body ground. If wiring and connection were not at fault, replace ECM.
5. If voltage was not present in step 3, inspect fusible link, ignition switch, wiring and connectors between battery, ignition coil (+), and igniter assembly.
6. If no faults were found in steps 1 through 5, proceed with this test. If faults were found and corrected, verify problem still exists prior to proceeding with this test.

Primary Coil Test:

7. Using an ohmmeter, measure resistance between ignition coil (+) and (-) terminals.

Primary Resistance (Cold): 0.36 - 0.55 ohms

Secondary Coil Test:

8. Using an ohmmeter, measure resistance between ignition coil (+) and the secondary terminals.

Secondary Resistance (Cold): 9.0 - 15.4 k ohms

9. Check ignition coil for signs of carbon tracking, burned or discolored plastic, external leakage, or cracks in the housing.
10. If ignition coil resistance is not within specifications or physical damage is apparent, replace ignition coil.

Pickup Coil Connector:

11. Disconnect primary wire connector at distributor.
12. Using an ohmmeter, measure resistance between terminals NE- and NE+.

Pickup Coil Resistance: 185 - 275 ohms

13. If resistance was not within specifications, replace distributor assembly. If no faults were found, proceed with this test.

Pick-up Coil Air Gap:

14. Using a non-magnetic feeler gauge, measure the gap between the signal rotor and its related pickup coil.

Air Gap: 0.2 - 0.4 mm (0.008 - 0.016 in)

15. If air gap is not within specifications, replace distributor assembly.
16. If no faults were found in this testing procedure, replace igniter unit.