Spark Output Check
- Connect a high output spark tester between ignition coil wire and engine ground. Check for spark at coil wire while cranking engine. A consistent Blue spark should be present and should make a snapping noise as it jumps spark tester. If spark is present, go to step 3). If no spark is present, go to next step.
- Remove distributor cap and crank engine to ensure distributor rotates. If okay, check resistance of coil secondary wire. Resistance should be less than 7000 ohms per foot. Service coil wire as necessary and retest. If spark is not present, go to step 4).
- If a consistent Blue spark is present at coil wire during cranking, inspect distributor cap and rotor for cracks or carbon tracking. Service as necessary and test spark output at spark plug wire. If spark is now present at spark plugs and engine will not start, go to DIAGNOSTIC ROUTINE 201 (CRANKS NORMALLY BUT WON'T START) in the TESTS W/O CODES
article in this section.
- With ignition off, disconnect SPOUT connector at distributor. Connect a 12-volt test light to TFI module side of SPOUT connector. See Fig 1
-Fig 3
.
Crank engine. If light blinks, the PIP sensor and TFI module are okay, use the appropriate coil testing procedure in the SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS
article, or if the test light does not blink, see IGNITION SYSTEMS in the same SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS
article in this section.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.