I just installed a Mallory HyFire VI-A capacitive discharge ignition in my '91 RS. It has worked perfectly except for this one problem I had. I work as a merchandiser for Coca-Cola and drive my car from store to store most of the day. The car was running fine until after my third store. I turned the key and the engine turned over nice and strong, but wouldn't fire. After several failed attempts to start the engine, I began diagnosing the problem. I checked all the leads from the Mallory to the coil and distributor, all were fine. Thankfully I keep my tool box in the car now! I checked the power leads with a test light and they were fine. I tested the ground wire, it was fine. I then pulled the air cleaner and watched my injectors as I turned the key. The injectors were delivering plenty of fuel. I then decided to check for spark using the old stick-a-screwdriver-in-a-plug-wire method. I pulled the #1 plug wire and inserted a screw driver and then positioned the metal shaft near a body ground. I turned the key and saw a spark and then the engine fired right up! I turned off the engine, replaced the plug wire and fired the engine again. I never had this problem before installing the Mallory. What could have caused this?

 

I used to have the same problem with the stock coil. Then I went and bought the recommended Mallory coil for the ignition box. After that... all my problems went away. Don't you need a nicer coil anyway ?

 

You're right, my coil is pretty crusty! Thanks!