cranks, but no start!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 161
Likes: 1
cranks, but no start!
This is a recurring problem with my 78. I take it out for a drive, stop for about 15-20 minutes then try to re-start and it will crank like crazy but won't start. I am getting gas to the carb but no fire. Can't understand it, I've changed modules, caps, rotors,and coil but still this problem comes up. Today the guy at the parts store suggested maybe the solenoid on the starter is bad. Can this be, even if the engine cranks like crazy? Help pleaze!
Racer
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 264
Likes: 1
From: west central INDIANA
Might check the pick-up coil,for breaks in the wires that are contantly being flexed by your vacume advance. Seems like ones I worked on years ago, did that , they would get hot then start after cooling down. Most of the time it was the pick-up coil. Hope this helps.
PS I also think they ohm out at 1500 ohms
PS I also think they ohm out at 1500 ohms
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 2,897
Likes: 0
From: Moon Township PA
Iirc, your car has the GM high energy ignition with the coil in the top of the distributor cap and the ignition module under the cap. I had similar issues with my 77 Buick Electra and I replaced both for around $75 or so. Solved all of my problems which were virtually identical to yours.
I remember reading somewhere that, when you replace the ignition module, you must use the "paste" that comes in a small tube to help keep everything working as designed. If my memory serves me, this paste acts as both a heat dissipater and dielectric compound.
Gary
I remember reading somewhere that, when you replace the ignition module, you must use the "paste" that comes in a small tube to help keep everything working as designed. If my memory serves me, this paste acts as both a heat dissipater and dielectric compound.
Gary
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Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 161
Likes: 1
I got into the distributor today and checked everything as advised. The only thing I found was the module was cracked almost the entire length on one side with a small droplet of "thick film" showing. I took it to the parts store and had them check it and believe it or not it passed!
I bought a new one anyway and installed it. After several starts and shut downs with re-starts it's so far-so good. Thanks for all the info!
I bought a new one anyway and installed it. After several starts and shut downs with re-starts it's so far-so good. Thanks for all the info!
