Lost spark and won't start now



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moparwagon
Posts: 36
Joined: Tue Apr 22, 2008 3:24 pm
Location: Lake Oswego, OR

Lost spark and won't start now

Post by moparwagon »

Last Friday I didn't have spark after rewiring my 59 Suburban. Hooked up a wire from the ballast resistor to the IGN side of the ignition switch and it started right up. Now, four days later, I have no spark again.

Anyone know what the problem is? I rechecked the connections and they're all good. I have 12.5 volts at the coil and a new battery (it started on the old battery, but it was 6 yrs old so decided to replace it).

Any tips will be GREATLY appreciated as I'm supposed to drive it to the upholsterer for a headliner tomorrow morning. Ron
1959 2 Dr Suburban under construction
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rogerh
Posts: 3024
Joined: Fri Mar 19, 2004 6:30 am
Location: Seabeck, Wa.

Re: Lost spark and won't start now

Post by rogerh »

are you tapping in BEFORE or AFTER the ballast resistor? My first thought is the resistor quit. This has happened to me.
If so, bypass the resistor..( I think it is only there to keep the points from burning)
moparwagon
Posts: 36
Joined: Tue Apr 22, 2008 3:24 pm
Location: Lake Oswego, OR

Re: Lost spark and won't start now

Post by moparwagon »

Thanks, Roger. I tried that but the actual problem was that I fried my Pertronix. I think it happened when I drug a wire across metal creating a spark. I understand that the Pertronix can be fried quite easily that way.....and I did it. Put in a new Pertronix and the starter gave up. Put in a new starter and all is good now......well, except my baby has been overheating on freeway driving. Going to flush and backflush the radiator and put in a new thermostat. I think that will take care of the overheating........WHEW! Best to you, Ron
1959 2 Dr Suburban under construction
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