Need Some Help!
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Need Some Help!
I just bought a 68 427 convertible in Sept. 2014. Went to do a tune up because it was running rough and spitting and sputtering. Pulled off distributer cap and found this. I think it is a points eliminater but I'm unsure. This is the coil. Can one of you good fellows help point me in the right direction to get info on this.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
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From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 979
Likes: 254
From: Bethlehem, PA
You have a transistorized ignition distributor. Follow the wires from the distributor to the amplifier. Most early high performance engine C3's used this set-up. Take a look at this ebay ad (not mine) to see all the typical parts. http://www.ebay.com/itm/CAMARO-67-73-K-66-Transistorized-Ignition-System-Dealer-Install-Kit-/171796483383?vxp=mtr
I just bought a 68 427 convertible in Sept. 2014. Went to do a tune up because it was running rough and spitting and sputtering. Pulled off distributer cap and found this. I think it is a points eliminater but I'm unsure. This is the coil. Can one of you good fellows help point me in the right direction to get info on this.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,079
Likes: 315
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Looks like a lot of humidity wherever it sat.
On another thought. Has the timing chain ever been changed? They came with nylon-coated gears. When I first got my car 11 years ago with 56k on the odometer...I pulled the oil pan and found both pieces of white nylon as well as black plastic from the pushrod seals. The timing chain was so loose that I was within a few miles of serious engine damage.
On another thought. Has the timing chain ever been changed? They came with nylon-coated gears. When I first got my car 11 years ago with 56k on the odometer...I pulled the oil pan and found both pieces of white nylon as well as black plastic from the pushrod seals. The timing chain was so loose that I was within a few miles of serious engine damage.
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Faster Rat. I have my doubts about the timing chain being changed. I had planned on dropping the pan just to have a look see. I'm guessing you are suggesting that I pull the cover and check that also. The issue I was having is 5 and 6 plugs were fouled, both were black. New Plug fouls after about 50 miles. Odometer does not work so I don't have any clue as to the mileage. Engine does seem to run on the hot side, I believe 340 when I stop it bleeds coolant. I do not have a expansion tank yet but will add one.
Looks like I need to break it down a little further. Just getting a little discouraged at this point.
Looks like I need to break it down a little further. Just getting a little discouraged at this point.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,079
Likes: 315
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Black is one thing, wet is another. Ignition is probably the least expensive to remedy or eliminate. Don't get discouraged, just take it one step at a time. I resisted pulling my engine for almost 5 years. Tried ignoring the engine ticking, blue smoke and oil leaks, but when the clutch broke...out it came. My rebuilder found a wiped cam and two stuck lifters. He had to beat one out of the hole.
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Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
WOW! How fast this is escalating. Now I'm really sick to my stomach. I thought I made a good purchase but now I feel I screwed up. So what are the most logical steps to proceed from here. The only known oil leak was valve cover gaskets. Typical smoke on start up of cold motor. Plugs were black but not wet. Thanks for all your help and Info.....
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,079
Likes: 315
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
What did you expect from a 47 year old car? The photo sure looks like nice silver convertible with aftermarket rims. I have no idea what condition your car is in, or what has been done to it. Why don't you tell us all what you have, other than it is a '68 with a 427 and probably TI? BTW, welcome to the C3 forum...and have a beer to settle your stomach. 
PS - There are far more knowledgeable mechanics on this forum than me, who will keep you on the right track. Besides, even my wife thinks I am way too negative and pessimistic.
PS - There are far more knowledgeable mechanics on this forum than me, who will keep you on the right track. Besides, even my wife thinks I am way too negative and pessimistic.
Last edited by Faster Rat; May 24, 2015 at 07:19 PM.