Thread: Help, engine just quit, no spark

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Owning a hot rod is like owning a boat........if you aren't a good mechanic when you get one, you will be much better after you own it for a while. Seems like there is always some issue to try to resolve.

My thoughts were the module too, and if you take yours to the auto parts store and tell them 70's-80's Chevy V8 and show them yours to compare, you might be able to find a match. Of course, if you get one of the store "experts" like they hire these days who only knows how to look up specific cars in the computer, you might be in trouble. We got one of those yesterday morning, trying to buy a slightly shorter v belt for my Son Dans rpu. I had to educate HIM about how the numbering system on v belts works because he was dragging every belt in the store out, just comparing length. After I showed him how the inches were in the part number he found the right one.

I have always thought modules in these GM distributors just go totally out with no warning like you got. Every one I have heard of failing worked one minute and then didn't work at all the next. But it is possible to have one fail and run crappy for a bit, then go, I guess. You might also check with a volt meter to see what kind of voltage you have coming into the module. Could be a bad ignition switch, wiring, ground, etc.

Don

Here is a little tutorial I found on line that might help you a bit too.




A vehicle ignition system includes the spark plugs, the ignition coil and the ignition module, which is also called the ignition control module. All of the parts work in conjunction with the control module to ignite the spark that causes a vehicle to start and maintain power. If the ignition module is faulty, the ignition system will fail. A vehicle will display various symptoms when the ignition module needs to be replaced.

Acceleration Problems
A vehicle may display acceleration problems if the ignition module is bad. It might hesitate or shake when the gas pedal is pressed. When decelerating followed by accelerating, the vehicle will often jerk and slow down before accelerating.

Temperature Issues
A bad ignition module can cause the temperature of your vehicle's engine to rise above normal. If overheating occurs, the temperature gauge on the dashboard will rise above the average temperature area. If you turn off the vehicle, and allow it to cool down, the gauge will return to normal. Once you start driving again, the vehicle's temperature will again rise above normal. This overheating and cooling pattern could indicate a problem with the ignition module.

No Power
If the ignition module is faulty, your vehicle may eventually not start at all. The engine may turn over, but cease to crank when you turn the ignition key. Continuously trying to start the vehicle will often produce clicking sounds from the engine, indicating that no spark is present in the ignition system.

Damage
Some symptoms are visible on the actual ignition module; therefore, inspecting the part will help to reveal any damage. The location of the module varies, depending on the vehicle. It may be mounted on the engine within the distributor, within an engine compartment or in the distributor housing. When the module has been located, inspect the surrounding bolts for cracks or extensive wear. Any noticeable damage is an indication of a faulty part. Also, the module should have a greasy substance on the back to protect it from the heat of the engine, otherwise, it must be replaced.



Don