[updraught]

Originally Posted by Chuck Sea/Tac

Ok ,that's what's missing. I didn't realize I needed storage to spark when the circuit collapsed. I thought the condenser was more to protect the points from burning.
On the same thought line, why doesn't my electronic ignition need a condenser?

Good question. A Google of "why doesn't my electronic ignition need a condenser?" brings up
http://www.breakerless.com/igntionfacts.htm

".... the coil current can be switched off much faster. This results in a faster collapse of the flux, creating a higher secondary voltage. Additionally, since this thing is a solid chunk of silicon, there is no opportunity for creating an arc (or the erosion that results from it)."