no spark/distributer question

[braxtona]

So it seems to me that I must be missing some thing very obvious. I'm attempting to put a new distributer in and it appears as if it just doesn't want to do any distributing. Measuring with a multi-meter I have power going into the distributer yet when I put it all together I get no spark from my plugs.

I'm pretty sure that its not a plug or plug wire issue because the multi meter shows nothing when I measure right at the distributer.

I have the distributer in its socket fully and the rotor rotates, yet still no power.

What am I missing and am I going to feel silly when someone points it out?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

First, rotate the engine so that the points are at the "low spot" on the points cam inside the distributor. Next, tape the center coil wire so that the end is about 1/4" to 1/8" from a ground (like the fan shroud). Then turn the key to "on". Reach into the distributor with a screwdriver and push the points open and closed. You should get a spark from the coil wire.

If you do not, then check for +12V at the larger black (may have a red stripe) wire that plugs into the (+) terminal of the coil, when the key is "on". Check for a good ground at the connector inside the distributor when the points are closed.

Make sure there is a small braid of wire going from the points plate to the distributor body, as that is how the points are grounded which triggers the spark.

If those checks don't help you find the problem, write back with more details.

--DD