Re: Still won't start
 

There's nothing like the real load I agree. However, if the condenser is bad enough the simple tests and test equipment work. No telling how much money has been thrown away on condensers, coils and spark plugs over the last 85 years for nothing when the real problem was something else.

Re: Still won't start
 

If the condenser terminal spins (and it does) then it is shot. It's very likely shorting the voltage to ground and that is what's heating up the coil. The coil will heat up if the points are closed, key is ON and engine isn't running, but during cranking or engine running, the coil shouldn't heat up.

For now don't worry about coil polarity, but answer this:
1. Do you have 6 volts on both terminals with the key off?
2. With the key on and points open, do you still have 6 volts on both terminals?
3. Do you have 0 volts on one terminal with the key on and points closed?

ALL 3 must be yes, or you won't have good ignition.

Don't hope and wish the condenser is good, because if the terminal spins, it is junk.

Re: Still won't start
 

Did you gas up just prior to this problem?

Re: Still won't start
 

what Tom posted in #42 is the basics for spark to occur...its very,, very simple :::
dont get all wrapped up in checking a 2.00 condenser if the post spins its junk, and even if it did not spin always keep a known good one on hand to swap out when having a spark issue.. as mentioned use the fiber washer underneath the proper length screw..
i have tested condensers that showed good but were still bad...

Re: Still won't start
 

To answer Tom's questions
1. Do you have 6 volts on both terminals with the key off?
Yes
2. With the key on and points open, do you still have 6 volts on both terminals?
Yes
3. Do you have 0 volts on one terminal with the key on and points closed?
Yes

Regarding gas, I drained the tank and got new gas. No change.

Regarding the condenser.
The condenser does not spin just the threaded copper end, so it can't be tighten.
The length of the screw shouldn't matter? Did not see a fiber washer? maybe it fell in the distributor. Will check.

Parts on the way.

Re: Still won't start
 

the threaded end of the condenser should not spin, thats what were talking about...
get yourself a fiber washer and the proper length screw

Re: Still won't start
 

If your getting fire to three cylinders it should start. I use a cut away dist. cap . With some one turning the it over you can see if there is spark to all cyl. and see if its a strong blue arc.

Re: Still won't start
 

Yes the car was starting for a few seconds and then die. Will check again for spark strength and color. I got distributor parts on the way and will change those and then check again.
Hope this will do. Dying to drive the car again.