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How do I know if the distributor is bad?

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Old 02-18-2003, 06:28 PM
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Default How do I know if the distributor is bad?

Ok, There are four parts within a distributor

1. Ignition Coil
2. Igniter
3. Rotor
4. Cap

But geez, what else is wrong? I have no spark at all. I tried with the plug #1 with a screwdriver sticking it to see if there are any sparks. Know what I mean??

Any sugguestions are welcome!


[Modified by Unknwn_1, 9:38 PM 2/18/2003]
Old 02-18-2003, 09:45 PM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (Unknwn_1)

Check cap and rotor for excessive wear. Might as well replace them.

Lay the spark plug wire on the valve cover and look for a spark. Try the coil first, then the ignitor. I have both sitting here if you need one. The coil is not bad, except the ignitor is an expensive piece.


[Modified by InspiredRacer, 1:46 AM 2/19/2003]
Old 02-19-2003, 03:38 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (InspiredRacer)

cap, coil, and rotor are new. i got a used igniter replaced already. hmmm, i am not sure what else I can try.
Old 02-21-2003, 07:11 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (Unknwn_1)

After you've done all that, the distributor only has a shaft bushing, seals, mechanical junk.

But maybe you should be looking elsewhere? How do you know the wiring back to your ecu is good? Helms book has a troubleshooting chart you could go thru.
Old 02-21-2003, 07:37 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (JimBlake)

I found out the problem. I noticed the shaft on the distributor wasn't spinning after many crank. To make a story short, it was a timing belt.
Old 02-21-2003, 08:37 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (Unknwn_1)

OUCH!!
Bent valves?
Old 02-21-2003, 08:56 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (JimBlake)

The owner said he was at a stop light before it die out. Do you guys think they are still fine?


[Modified by Unknwn_1, 11:58 AM 2/21/2003]
Old 02-21-2003, 09:31 AM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (Unknwn_1)

leak-down test time.

FYI for future knowledge, when the distributor goes bad, the bering inside puts this reddish brown dust all over the inside of the cap.
Old 02-21-2003, 03:10 PM
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Default Re: How do I know if the distributor is bad? (Shiroi Hakucho)

Thanks!
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