Eagle223usa

I just replaced most of my ignition system in my 89 IROC 5.7 TPI. So far it's a new module, plugs, wires ect. My problem is it will not start. I dropped the dizzy this morning and it fired up. I was about a tooth off and had her cranked all the way over to the passengers side. So I pulled it to set it up straight forward and now it won't start. I've had it in and out about 15 times today, setting her up on the compression stroke for #1 and she is getting spark but will not run. What am I overlooking??? Thanks in advance, all replies are appreciatted.

JakeJr

Seems like you know pretty much what you're doing since you had the engine running, but you must have missed a step after the re-install. I'm going to assume everything's plugged in properly.

Here's how I do it:

I bring #1 piston to TDC on the COMPRESSION STROKE and stop it when the timing mark is in the range of 6-10 degrees BTDC.

I then position the distributor so that the rotor is pointing at the the location where the #1 spark plug wire is located on the distributor cap. That is, where it will be positioned once it's installed on the distributor.

I drop in the distributor, but since this causes the rotor to move (causing it to no longer face the #1 plug wire location) I reposition the rotor until it points at the #1 distributor cap location.

Now, this will probably cause the distributor and oil pump drives NOT TO INDEX with each other, so I remove the distributor and use a long screwdriver to reach down into the engine through the intake manifold and move the oil pump drive until the two can index with each other.

Once the indexing is complete and the distributor will DROP ALL THE WAY DOWN, flush with the intake, I verify that the rotor tip is pointed at the #1 spark plug wire.

Lock the distributor down just enough to hold it but not so much as to prevent it from being rotated by hand. I fire the engine and, with my timing light, I set the initial timing.

Then I lock down the distributor hold-down clamp tight.

DONE!

Let me know if this helps and how you're making out.

Jake

Guest

There are two times when the engine reads TDC but only once when its going to fire the #1. Often, its just 180 out. Try that, see if that gets the car running again.

Eagle223usa

Ok, I think I found my mistake. I was dropping the Diz at TDC. Not 6 to 10 advanced. Thanks guys. I might give her a shot tonight. I just got back from the ER. Got some metal shavings in my left eye when I cut down the spark plug socket to fit the plugs! Oh and I was wearing safety glasses! I need to find googles or something. Second time this year! Thanks guys, I know this stuff but I must be getting Alshiemers or something.

Eagle223usa

Set her at 8 degrees advanced and she fired right up. Thanks again Guys!

JakeJr

I know the feeling. I've made those same trips to the ER a few times myself. I have those "senior moments" too.

Glad to see you got it fired.

Jake

Eagle223usa

Thanks again Jake, She still starts harder than I'd like her too. But she starts!


Oh, And Congratulations on your son, I know your proud of him! Happy Fathers Day!