1969 Corvette ignition system

[Jerry B.]

Here goes. The ignition system has not been touched for 10 years. The car ran ok but I thought it was time to update the points system. I replaced eight AC 44. new 440 packard wires, new AC points and condenser( NOS) USA., rotor( short terminal type) and the AC distributor cap was replaced not to long ago. Now the so----- will not start. I checked the resistor wire and coil for continuity ok. made sure plug wires did not get crossed. Starter will engage but will not start. suggestions please.

[Paul O.]

Re: 1969 Corvette ignition system

Jerry

First thing I would check do you have spark. If no spark disconnect the condenser from the points and check again. If you now have spark bad condenser if not then check the points for proper gap or dwell. When you say starter engages but will not start does the engine turn over?

[Duke W.]

Re: 1969 Corvette ignition system

Assuming no spark, with the ignition on check for voltage at the coil positive terminal. Then with the ignition off and the points closed check for continuity between the coil negative terminal and ground. A faulty ground wire on the breaker plate is a common problem. There are repair kits available - see a thread started by me in Dec. 2012.

Also check that the condenser has infinite resistance. A shorted condenser will disable the ignition system.

Duke