Just a quick question, I was told by a parts dealer that I dont need to change my coil and that when they go bad they simply dont work, also said something that they are made to last like 20 years.

Are they not suppose to be changed every so many years? I would think mine is the original distributor. Anyone suggestions as to how to know if it need replacement? Is it part of the tune up process?

Also how about the pickup module on the distributor. Are they suppose to be chaged or wait till car want start?


Thanks.

Sam

 

Re ignition coil, could last 5 years or 50...no reason to change unless it will not throw a good spark....definitely not a "tune-up" item.
Also, not sure if these newer ones are oil filled like the old cannister coils, but if they are, look for oil film on it...if you see it (and it's coming from the coil) replace it.

Re: Pickup coil...test it with an ohm meter. Should sit right at 800 ohms...I know book spec is something like 600-1600ohms, but believe me, 800 ohm, +/-40 and steady when you wiggle the connector around, look for any green corroision on it or the connection to the ICM...replace it (if on it) and clean connection accordingly. Again, it's not a tuneup item...but if you ever have the dizzy out for whatever reason, they are cheap..about 10 bucks, and wuold be good to replace, since it's not really a part that can fail from use, but time/elements...corrosion being the main one.

 

Thanks for the reply Mike,

Ill take a look at it later today

Sam