No start (no spark??)

[blackjeep2002]

Hello all,
My 78 will not start. It has been working ok till I went to leave on Tues, then, no start. :( I am getting fuel, because I can see it spraying into the carb. I put on a new coil and changed the plugs and wires. If I try to test to see if I'm getting a spark, I only get intermittent spark or no spark at all. :mad: I put my timing light on the coil wire to see if I was getting spark to the distributor, and I only light the light when the key goes from the start to on position. :confused: I do not know what to do!!!!!!! :( It had been starting and running ok so I do not know what could have caused this. :confused: Could my timing chain have jumped a tooth? Any suggestions? I drive this thing daily and I need it to run and I also was planning on taking it on a run Memorial weekend.
Thanks for your help, all!!!!!!!! smile.gif
Keith

[Marvin Gates]

The first thing to do is take the module to an Autozone parts store and have them test it to see if its any good. They just die for no reason. I've been told that they can test them. I had one die on me and you can change everything in the ignition system and it won't run! MG Good Luck :D :D

[blackjeep2002]

Got a new ignition module. It still will not start. It seems like I'm not getting any spark. Can anyone give me an idea where to go next? Could the starter solenoid be bad?
Thanks,
Keith

[xj2fsj]

when you crank the engine, does the starter turn, does it sound the same as it usually does. If so, then you are probably fine in that area, including the sol.
From what you are saying I would guess a loose coil wire or bad ground in that system. Also I would still have the module tested just to be sure.

[Ernzo]

SOunds like the ignition (rocket scientist!). Know how to hot wire a coil? Good way to jump over a few things to ensure that the dizzy etc. is ok.

Ignition modules are not foolproof, I agree that a test is in order, even though it is new.

Lastly, I read that all is hunkey doory, then boom, no start. Is that the case? If so, it sort of rules out a few things, but more detailed history - names, dates, parts etc.- would help.

[Michael]

Sounds like the pick up coil in the distributor to me. I just went through that.

The haynes manual explains in detail how to diagnose...but here are some small things to check...

First off. If you are having an initial spark...that is from the coil. It is doing its job. After that you loose everything. Since you replaced your module and allready your coil it leaves one thing....the pickup coil in the distributor. Or Wiring issue. But since it was running fine and now all of a sudden it is not I would guess the dizzy...Mine just did the same thing. New dizzy and I was all set!

Check the Haynes manual....it gives a good description of how to check the pic up coil resistance.

Good luck.

[blackjeep2002]

Got it going!!!!! smile.gif It was the pick up coil. I tested for the resistace and got none. Replaced the pick up coil and vroom, started right up. Thank you everyone for all of your help. :D :D It is another good day to have a Jeep. :D :D
Keith :cool:

[Michael]

Great to hear it!!!!

[Marvin Gates]

It cost $40 for the pick up coil and you can get a rebuilt dizzy with a new one in it for $50, so thats what I did with mine. The prestolite system (in my opinion) is junk. Anyway, glad you got it fixed MG :D :D

[ May 11, 2002: Message edited by: Marvin Gates ]</p>