Why did you change the ignition timing? In your description you say you
found and fixed the manifold leak, and "rough timed it using one of those
whistles that screw in like a spark plug and let you find tdc". If the
engine was running, there was no reason to change the ignition timing.
Since it was running, and now isn't, I'd say the change in ignition timing
is the most likely cause of the new unwillingness to start. While it's
tempting to blame the weak looking spark, that probably isn't it.
Unless there's a good reason to ignore the crankshaft pulley, that's the
best way to set your baseline ignition timing. You should also pull the
valve cover to ensure you are at TDC of the compression stroke, not the
exhaust stroke.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Roger Elliott" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: [TR] Spitfire Ignition Problems
I have been trying to figure out the starting problem on my Spitfire for
quite awhile now.
My problem all started with a hole in the intake manifold. I had driven
it to work - about 45 miles. The last 2 miles it was running very rough,
but I made it to work. After work the Spitfire refused to start so I had
it towed home. After working on it a couple of different times I finally
found the hole on the underside of the intake manifold. This is on a dual
SU setup.
I had the throttle return springs hooked up to a bracket bolt to the
underside of the manifold - normally it the intake would have been bolted
to the exhaust manifold, but I have an exhaust header. The springs
apparently had enough pressure to break the manifold. So I got that
repaired.
I thought that the Spitfire would fire right up once I bolted everything
back on. I got new throttle return levers so I could hook the springs up
the way they should be. I rough timed it using one of those whistles that
screw in like a spark plug and let you find tdc.
Anyway, now the car still will not start. It seems to have pretty good
spark at the coil wire, but at the spark plug wires it seems to have a
puny yellow spark instead of a good blue one. I have replaced the
distributor cap and rotor and plugs, tried two sets of wires, two or three
coils. It still seems to have a weak spark at the plugs. Oh, I should
mention it has a Pertronix ignition system. I checked that according to
their web site - it was okay. I put on a new one as I decided it would
not hurt to have a spare anyway.
So what else do I check?
Thanks,
Roger Elliott
80 Spitfire
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