Commutator servicing

[JohninKuranda]

The '15 T is running very rough - seems to be missing on a few cylinders. I have checked the plugs (gap, cleanlines etc.), adjusted the coils, checked the plug leads, all connections going in to the coil box, and all copper connectors.

Next step will be to drain the remainder of the "old" fuel, flush the tank and lines and try some new fuel.

If that does not work I guess the next step is to look at the commutator. The big question for me is whether this is a reasonably simple task for someone not especially well versed in auto-mechanics. If I end up doing this, does anyone have any special tips and tricks to ease me through?

Any suggestions appreciated.

Cheers
John

 

[Royce P]

If you adjusted the coils without using a hand cranked or Strobe O Spark coil tester you have probably made them useless.

For cleaning and lubricating the timer click here:
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/257047/267441.html

The '15 T is running very rough - seems to be missing on a few cylinders. I have checked the plugs (gap, cleanlines etc.), adjusted the coils, checked the plug leads, all connections going in to the coil box, and all copper connectors.

Next step will be to drain the remainder of the "old" fuel, flush the tank and lines and try some new fuel.

If that does not work I guess the next step is to look at the commutator. The big question for me is whether this is a reasonably simple task for someone not especially well versed in auto-mechanics. If I end up doing this, does anyone have any special tips and tricks to ease me through?

Any suggestions appreciated.

Cheers
John

 

[Will N]

I'd suggest a compression check.

 

[Jack Innes]

I have often found that plugs even though they are clean & gapped correctly can still be a problem. An easy check would be to install your spare new set to see if the problem exists.

 

[CharlieB]

While Royce is totally correct about the coils you did mention you had the problem before you started checking/adjusting so you probably haven't found your trouble yet. Removing the timer is easy enough and cleaning it isn't rocket science either. The things to look for when it's off & clean is the running surface where the roller contacts are. Run a finger around the surface. It should be relatively smooth. No dips or depressions that cause the roller to skip. Check the roller spring and the roller itself for wear. Reinstall it and oil it generously through the oil cap and give the engine a try. Do you have a starting battery and does it run the same on batt & mag if you do.

 

[Pat Vaughn]

Do you take the commutator cover off to put new wires on?

 

[Will N]

Taking the communtator off isn't necessary, but it makes it a whole lot easier to attach the wires. And taking it off is a really simple job.

 

[Steve Jelf]

And in case you need any guidance on which new wires go where:

 

[scdiver]

If you have very old gas in the car you could have one or more stuck intake valves. I have had to fix 2 cars with this problem. Do a compression test, that will tell you. Old gas will gum up the intake valves so they are stuck open.