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Spark Test (3.0L)

  1. Remove ignition coil secondary cable from distributor cap. Hold end of cable 1/4" away from a known good engine ground. Crank engine and check for spark.
  2. If spark is not constant or there is no spark, go to step 4). If spark is constant, have an assistant continue cranking engine while slowly moving coil secondary cable away from ground. Observe if arcing occurs at coil tower. If arcing takes place, replace ignition coil.
  3. If spark is constant and NO arcing occurs, ignition system secondary voltage is correct. Ensure secondary voltage reaches spark plugs, indicating ignition system is okay. Go to MECHANICAL INSPECTION under PRELIMINARY INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENTS. Perform tests under FUEL SYSTEM.
  4. If no spark is present, ensure battery is fully charged (at least 12.4 volts). Connect voltmeter to ignition coil B+ (battery) terminal. See Fig 1 .
    Fig 1: Ignition Coil Terminal ID (2.2L TBI, 2.5L & 3.0L)
    G91B08308Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.
  5. Crank engine for at least 5 seconds while checking voltage at coil terminal. If voltage remains near zero during entire cranking period, go to TESTS W/CODES article and test Auto Shutdown (ASD) relay circuit.
  6. If voltmeter reading is near battery voltage, then drops to zero after 1-2 seconds of cranking, go to TESTS W/CODES article and test distributor reference pick-up circuit.
  7. If voltmeter reading remains at or near battery voltage during entire cranking period, turn ignition off. Disconnect 60-pin connector from SBEC (engine controller) and check terminals for poor connections. See Figure .
  8. Remove positive lead from coil. Connect a jumper wire between battery positive terminal and coil positive terminal. Using a specially constructed jumper wire, momentarily ground terminal No. 19 of SBEC harness connector. See Figure and Figure . Spark should be generated when ground connection is disconnected.
  9. If spark is generated, replace SBEC. If spark is not generated, ground negative coil terminal using specially constructed jumper wire. If spark is produced, repair open circuit in wiring harness. If spark is not produced, replace ignition coil.
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