Engine doesn't fire

[Allan Parkhurst]

My engine ran ok before I replaced the carb, regulator, starter coil and key switch and guages. The engine turns over I get gas but but not even a hint of firing. I checked all wires and they are in the correct order. I tried to ground the generator to the regulator,maybe I need to clean contacts? I pulled # 1 plug and attached plug wire only get a weak spark when I ground the plug. I still have spare coils,regulators and carb. I have a 1948 B1B orginal 6 volt system with generator. Any help would be appriciated. Allan

[Mick Blake]

Did you have the distributor out, it could be a 180 degrees out.

[Frank Elder]

Reversed coil wires will give you weak spark.

[Allan Parkhurst]

Thanks for the replys. I did not have the distributor out but did replaced the wires. I checked the coil wires the wire to the distributor is connected to + side of the coil. I did replace that wire to the distributor because it was worn.

[Tom Skinner]

Allan,

Maybe your new coil is bad.

Try putting your old one on again and see what happens.

Tom

[Willis Pingel]

I had the same problem and found the points gap was way off. Check that. Bill

[grey beard]

Allan,

Were I there with you, I'd first take a test light and see if there is current at the coil with the key on. This wire from the key switch must be hot in order for the ignition system to function. If you did not have your cap off or distributor out, your problem is not there.

If all else fails, pull the heavy coil wire from the center of your dist. cap and place it close to a metal surface on the engine. If the ignition system is working, you should hear/ see a nice blue spark take place each time you crank the motor with the key turned on. If not, you still have ignition problems.

If this coil terminal is not hot wth the key on, try using a jumper wire from the starter terminal where the battery cable connects up to the coil directly. If it runs then, your problem is likely in the dash wiring. The wire that feeds the ignition coil must be on one of the two ignition switch posts that is hot only with the key on.

Is there fuel at the carburetor? Did the new carb sit aroud a long time? If you pull the air cleaner and stroke the throttle linkage full travel, you should be able to see a stream of fuel pumping into the carb throat if you look with a shop light.

If you srill hacve problems, give me a call. We'll work through the problem, guaranteed.

Happy Thanksgiving.