Not getting Spark

[miamiKnights]

hey all alright just needed to take a step back and relax.

72' 240z is not creating spark. i changed the spark plugs and wires, i rebuilt the distributor, change condenser, point, rotor, and cap, then i triple checked the firing order to make sure wires were plugged in correctly. what is the next step in trying to solve this problem. still trying to get a camera!

thanks alot

[alexideways]

Do you have power at the coil???

[miamiKnights]

how would i check if the coil is getting power, without a expensive electrical tester.

[alexideways]

Easiest would be to unplug the coil lead at the distributor and hold it near a good known ground with a screw driver and a rag around the handle. DON'T lean against the car.

 

If you have a spark there, the problem lies between the coil and plugs.

 

Do you have EFI or carbs, do you have points/break or electronic ignition??

[miamiKnights]

i have twin s.u. with stock ignition. im going downstairs to check the coil. please clarify this

" If you have a spark there, the problem lies between the coil and plugs."

does that mean the problem is the distributor, or the coil?

[alexideways]

Well, you have to leave the coil in the car, just unplug the coil lead at the distributor and hold it to a ground, then have someone crank, if you see a good spark, you'll know the coil is good and the problem lies further down the line. You should also check your gap between your points and dwell angle.

 

If the points are black and pitted, you should replace them (about $20 and 1/2h. worth of work) These things don't last to long and that is why I installed an old GM V8 igniter with a 280Z dizzy, I was tired of adjusting and replacing those little bastards.

 

EDIT: Oups, I just reread your poste and you state that you replaced the points and all so, just check the gap, a good feeler gage if you don't have a real one is the thickness of a matchbook.

[miamiKnights]

nice little setup there.

thanks for helping me on this you are getting me very close. there is no spark from the coil. now i could replace the coil and see if it works... but i would like to check if power is getting to the coil, or is there any other test that can pre determin the problem before i go on spending more money. i have the haynes manual but for me person to person is alot easier, little tricks and tips and i use the book for backup.

thanks alot

[alexideways]

Do you have a test light or a multimeter? A cheap analog meter is best for this as it picks up quick bursts of current beter than a numeric one.

 

plug the negatve lead to a good ground and the other one on the plus side of the coil, the wire that comes from the dizzy. Have someone crank and check if the needle moves or the test light flashes, if not, you don't have power going TO the coil.

[alexideways]

One more thing before i go to bed.

If you do not have power coming to the coil, put the ign. on and check if you have current at + side of the points. If not, follow the circuit and test at each connections untill you find juice. The problem lies between where you have 12V. and the last connection you checked. Hope this helps.