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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - No Spark V-8 & What is this thing?

Hello All,
A. Pfau

Hello Again, Sorry about the above, I guess I can't hit enter in this window. Anyways, I have a factory V8 that I'm not getting spark to. I replaced the coil and condensor, cleaned points etc. I'm getting power to the positive side of the coil, but nothing into the distributor (with the key on). It is a ballast system but I'm not sure what that entails exactly. There is a small blue plastic part connected with one wire to the positive terminal of the coil and then it is simply grounded to the fan shroud. Is this a ballast, or is it a radio suppresor? Any ideas on how to troubleshoot why no spark? Thanks In Advance, Alan Pfau
A. Pfau

With the points open, you should see ~12 volts on the negative side of the coil. If you don't, disconnect the negative wire and if you still don't get 12 volts, your coil is bad. If you do get 12 volts with the wire disconnected, then something must have been shorting the negative wire to earth.
George B.

Also, ballasts are never grounded.
George B.

..the thing is almost certainly a radio suppressor.

The ballast coil is 'integrated' into the wiring loom -don't assume that the coil-to-cap lead is necessarily intact

if you need a wiring diagram - let me know
Roger

Thank you George and Roger. Using your info. I was able to deduce that the problem was that the base of the plastic insulator on the points plate was allowing the spring arm of one point to short out on the base. After disconnecting the negative lead from the coil, I did get a current, at the coil, but not when it was plugged back in. After getting things adjusted properly I was getting spark at the plugs, and even had the car fire and run shortly (first time in probably 12 years or so!). Now I'm on to the carb's.

Thanks again for your help,

Al
Alan Pfau

Alan:

You have a FACTORY V8? In the states? That is one rare item!

Pete
Pete

Hi Pete,
There are a few in the US but, you're right, not too many. It was probably one of the smartest things I have done. I took advantage of the once in a lifetime exemption for importing a non-complying car (exempt from emission standards, but not exempt from safety standards), I guess back in the early 90's. At the time, I think it cost $1000 to ship it to Baltimore, Md. I had to put up a surity bond, and thoroughly document the safety upgrade. It really wasn't too bad, since most of the safety parts (lights, seatbelts, buzzers etc.) were available from the MGB.

Al
Alan Pfau

This thread was discussed between 25/09/2002 and 30/09/2002

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