Replaced my SBC distributor with an MSD knockoff because it wouldn't start (same dist. as I've had for 15 years.) Starting problem still existed but while it was finally running, I noticed the cap wobbling on distributor. Remove cap and noticed something bent the center contact on the rotor. Reshaped it and car started but it now only starts when I take my hand off key while cranking! Is this a distributor problem, ignition switch....or something else ? Thanks
It's much easier for you to put a test light or volt meter on the wires, than for us, because we're so far from New Jersey. We can make all kinds of guesses, but you're gonna have to troubleshoot it yourself.
Before it started, it had juice at the coil but no spark at the spark plug. Then repeated cranking got it started, but only after taking finger off key.
Does it have battery power at the coil? Does it have battery power at the coil while cranking? If it starts when you let off of crank and key goes to run, you can have a key switch issue, starter solenoid issue, or wire issue. With no information on how the system is wired or what type of vehicle it is, we have to guess.
Sounds like you're not getting power to the ignition system while cranking, but that's easily checked by hooking a light bulb to it, if it goes out while cranking that's your problem. The exact cause may vary between different cars as not all are wired the same, but it's a good starting point for looking for the cause.
It is a 1970 C10 with an 88 Camaro 350….built it and drove it as a daily driver for last 25 years Ran trouble free….until it didn’t Thanks for your input
1970 should be points distributer from factor. It would have a built in resistored wire (white in color) (replaces old way of using external mounted ballast resistor) that runs for the ignition switch down to the starter solenoid terminal marked R then back up the loom to the ign. coil. When you turn the key to the start position the R terminal becomes live and sends full voltage to the ignition coil. When you release the key to run position that portion turns off and the coil will see resistored power only. More questions. What distributor was in it before the MSD that gave you problems?
Been looking at wiring diagram for 70 pick up. Turns out wire color and routing differs from cars. Purple wire from switch to coils + terminal. Bypass is yellow and runs from starter R terminal to coils + terminal. This means two individual wires and sources coming together at the coil in factory stock form. I also looked up ignition switch to see terminal arrangement. Only one terminal to provide power for ignition. Again, test light time to see if all functions I’ve mentioned exist. Note, what does the MSD instructions say about proper gauge wire and needed power source?
My bad. “W/OR/PPL” white or purple. Apparently this is due to weather it’s a standard steering column or tilt.
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