Engine ignition question

[JRShaw]

What does it mean when there is spark at the points, but no spark from the plug when turning the engine over with the starter?? Thank you all in advance for any help in this matter.

Best Regards
Joel R. Shaw

 

[Will N]

Bad/corroded connection of the low tension leads to the coil, bad coil, bad distributor body or cap, bad high tension lead from coil.

 

[1955cj5]

What does it mean when there is spark at the points, but no spark from the plug when turning the engine over with the starter?? Thank you all in advance for any help in this matter.

Best Regards
Joel R. Shaw

The current that passes from the battery through the points has no direct connection to the current that passes through the high tension lead to the distributor cap.

All the points do is allow an electrical field to build and collapse in the coil.

The fix may be as simple as cleaning the contact surfaces of the points with 400 grit sandpaper

 

[Jim Brierley]

The spark plug must be grounded to the head.

 

[Rocky Rocket]

You got it Jim!

 

[johnbuckley]

Bad/corroded connection of the low tension leads to the coil, bad coil, bad distributor body or cap, bad high tension lead from coil.

nice list ... add bad rotor arm.

 

[nkaminar]

A spark at the points when they open would most likely indicate a bad condensor.

 

[Ed in Maine]

It could also be a weak coil. Be careful not to overheat the coil while you are diagnosing the problem by leaving the ignition switch on. Use a piece of paper between the points while you are thinking things over. Ed