No Spark - 1978 Crusader 350

[scottikus]

I have done extensive troubleshooting and am completely stumped.

The Starboard engine is not getting spark to the plugs.

I have done the following:

Changed out the Distributor rotor and cap, Replaced the coil and the alternator. I also have an inline spark tester hooked up so I know when it is actually sparking. I have also swapped the ignition switches, and it still won't spark/start.

In an attempt to try and get it started, I bridged a wire from the stbd coil positive to the port engines alternator , and it started up within 2 seconds, then I disconnected the bridge. After the starboard was running, temps and oil pressure are good, but the tach is showing wacky readings, like 3k when its really at 700. Also after its started, it stays running just fine and sparks perfectly. Once after trying this bridging, the starboard also would not turn off from the ignition.

Thoughts? Thank you very much in advance!

 

[erich]

Disconnect the tach. Wishful thinking but maybe...

 

[makomark]

Tach could be a contributor to the no start syndrome...The alternator is the likely cause of the keeps running with the key off problem. Wise use of a volt meter may lead to resolution of the issue much faster (& cheaper) than throwing parts at the problem engine.

Assuming the original distributors are unmodified, I need to ask if the points are in good shape and properly gapped. Also, is the mechanical advance mechanism inside the distributor in proper operating condition?

If that is ok, how do you know you were sold the correct parts that were replaced?

When was the last time the ballast resistor was changed?

 

[fastjeff]

One more thing: Some motors use one terminal on the starter to send a full 12 volts to the distributor for starting, a circuit that is live ONLY during cranking. If that circuit is not working it will not start but, if you jump it somehow and get it running, it will keep going.

Jeff