ELECTRONIC IGNITION FAULTS

BASIC CHECKS If electronic ignition is lifeless, first check all multiplugs for corrosion. See if a spark’s generated as the ignition’s turned on or off. This shows the coil’s fine, but doesn’t necessarily OK the amplifier.

TEST AMPLIFIER Remove the plug from the distributor. If it has three pins, repeatedly connect the middle pin (sensor output) to one of the outer pins (supply). If this generates sparks, the amplifier’s working.

CHECK WIRING If the coil and amplifier are working, this implicates the sensor in the distributor, or broken or corroded wiring. Test for continuity between ends of all wires before condemning electronic components.