The Classic Ignition Problems

SeattleSy#1255

Category 5 Conservative
Here is my problem...when i hit 3rd and into 4th i begine to see my RPM's inconsistant (datamaster). They become "choppy." Knock usually follows this, so i'm pretty sure my knock is real det.

I have replaced:

Coil with stock GM'er
Taylor Wires
NGK ur5's
Conrad cap/rotor

My question is about the ignition module. What are some of the signs of an IM going ka-put?

Also, could a faulty IM affect only one cylinder or would it be a cylinder wide problem?

TIA
 

Timbo

SyTy Stalker
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

To affect only one cylinder, I would think the problem would have to be between the distributer and the plug.
 

SeattleSy#1255

Category 5 Conservative
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

Timbo said:
To affect only one cylinder, I would think the problem would have to be between the distributer and the plug.

that is what i was thinking too...either the plug, wire, or cap terminal. Everytime i put new ones in, nothing changes.
 

TurboTony

Active member
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

What are the other variables when this happens? As in what boost, tcc locked, etc.

I chased a false knock problem in my truck the first time I put it together that turned out to be the tcc clutch slipping a bit causing false knock. The rpm looked very jagged if you zoomed in the DM graph as well.

Just something to consider. What TC are you running and what mods are done to your tranny? My tranny was bone stock when I had that problem.

Tony
 

BigAl...

Member
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

If your ignition signal is choppy RUN don't walk and replace the p/u coil in the distributor. the kit cost about 80 bucs but the whole distributor new from autozone cost me 99bucs(worth the extra 20bucs). this solved alot of problems for me. The giveaway is the choppy ign. signal.

BigAl...
 

dgoodhue

BuSTeD 4.3
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

Also check the wiring harness (2 wires/connector) between the coil and distributor.
 

SeattleSy#1255

Category 5 Conservative
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

BigAl... said:
If your ignition signal is choppy RUN don't walk and replace the p/u coil in the distributor. the kit cost about 80 bucs but the whole distributor new from autozone cost me 99bucs(worth the extra 20bucs). this solved alot of problems for me. The giveaway is the choppy ign. signal.

BigAl...

So if i purchase a new dissy, the p/u coil and IM come with it?

gmpartsdirect i can get new IM and P/U coil for about 50 +tax ....i dont' know what else it could be unless the dissy is toast as i have replaced everythign else.

it happens at WOT when it shifts into 3rd, i was watching the TC lockup and it doesn't seem to be related as it (the choppy RPM's) happens before and after the lockup. I have a smooth RPM line in first and second. Its not knocking a a ton. I recorded the KS and it "tinks" here and there but it'n not a continous problem meaning the knock doesn't just happen and continue...looking at other factors volts seem to be ok and no other factors seem to drastically change except this choppy RPM's which seem to have a direct effect on it knocking...its not any of the standard tune up stuff as thats been replaced a million times. I replaced the coil with no difference...what else does that leave, dissy, IM, and p/u coil?
 

BigAl...

Member
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

I'll say again, maybe you didn't uderstand the first time, RRUUNN dont walk!!!! and change the p/u coil, the kit cost about 80bucs but the whole dist. new w/o the IM cost 99bucs, if you haven't already changed the IM now would be a good time since you'll have the dist. out. you might get it a little cheaper from gmpartsdirect but it'll take almost a week just go down to the local pepboys or autozone and buy the friggin dist.

this SHOULD fix your choppy ign signal, it has for me on several trucks.

Dont ask any more questions, just change the p/u coil!

Trust me this will help alot of issues with the ignition.

BigAl...
 

SeattleSy#1255

Category 5 Conservative
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

ok bidal is going to kick my a$$ which is cool but before you sit on me what i need to know is if i buy a dissy does that include the IM and P/U or am i needing to get 3 sepearate things.
 

BigAl...

Member
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

what does the second line in the first paragraph of my last post say?

BigAl...
 

SeattleSy#1255

Category 5 Conservative
Re: The Classic Ignition Problems

i guess i'm just not familiar with all the ignition components, hence i'm here posting. You state i can get a P/U kit for 80 but if we are talking about the same thing, gmpartsdirect says i can get a P/U coil for 11 bucks so tha is why i'm confused. Then you state replace the entire dissy for 99, am i to assume that include a new P/U coil? Perhaps these are novice quesions, but i'm again not to familiar with the ignition. Thanks again for the help bigal, your knowledge far exceeds mine.
 
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