In my search to correct my crappy idle and huge bog, i'm trying to narrow down the possibilities... I recently rebuilt the carb, and changed ignition parts before that. The car has never really run right for me....

Just wondering, to test for spark while the car is running (or to check for a miss), can I hook up my inductive timing light pickup to other spark plug wires, and if I get the steady flashing light, that means current continuity, therefore spark?

Thanks -J

 

Nah dude just put a screwdriver in the spark plug wire and hold the metal part against the engine. Have a buddy of yours turn the engine over a couple of times.

 

oh ok, taking the boot off the spark plug wire, pushing in a screwdriver into the hole of the boot, then holding the metal part of the screwdriver against a metal park of the car (block), while holding the plastic handle so I don't get shocked? then just look for sparks? this is with the engine off, but cranking over? but not letting it start? or turning it off right away?


Does my idea work though? I figured in case some of the spark plug wires may not be connecting to the plugs nicely, this will tell me without having to remove it... Or would it not work?

 

Won't work. All that will do is tell you if the voltage is making it through the circuit.

You need to measure how far of a gap the spark can jump, and check it's intensity. This will give you an indication of the voltage your ignition system is capable of producing. You can get an accurate little tool for this at most automotive tool places for ~$10.

EDIT: Something like this.

 

slick! well if the circuit is complete, the timing light would blink, and i'd be getting spark wouldn't I?

I'll look around for that tool, I guess you put the boot on the left side there, tighten to the gap you want to test, then clamp that right side onto an engine bolt?

 

You would be getting spark, but it would not be indicative of the quality of the spark. A weak spark may not fire the cylinder at all, and could easily blow out under load. It requires MUCH more voltage to cross the plug gap under load.

 

Loocking at it with a scope would be my suggestion.