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Old 08-06-2020, 07:52 PM   #41
txmike
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Default Re: Spark Question

ok here is one for you

can i use the lower plate with ground wire with the new "modern" upper plate?
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Old 08-06-2020, 08:30 PM   #42
Jim/GA
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Default Re: Spark Question

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Originally Posted by txmike View Post
ok here is one for you

can i use the lower plate with ground wire with the new "modern" upper plate?
Yes.
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Old 08-08-2020, 11:10 AM   #43
txmike
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Default Re: Spark Question

ok another dumb question. Ground wire go to upper plate or the distributor housing
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Old 08-08-2020, 12:24 PM   #44
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Default Re: Spark Question

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Originally Posted by txmike View Post
ok another dumb question. Ground wire go to upper plate or the distributor housing
It's not really a "ground wire".

The wire from the lower plate connects back to the wire that goes up to the ignition switch, which then goes to the coil + post (in Henry's original wiring scheme -- not the "modified wiring scheme" that many use).

This wire CANNOT touch a ground anywhere or the engine will not run (you won't get a spark).

This wire goes up and connects to the little nut connector on the side of the modern points, the same place where the condenser connects to.



When connecting to the points, it is critical that this wire end NOT touch the upper plate itself or the side of the distributor housing. Those are grounds and they will make the engine not run (you won't get a spark).

The points themselves, and only the points, provide the ground to this wire when they close, and take the ground away when they open.

Hope this helps.

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Old 08-08-2020, 12:54 PM   #45
SDJason
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Default Re: Spark Question

To add to what Jim said above - please see the attached picture.

It's the clearest most understandable drawing of the ignition system I've seen; I can't take credit for it - I believe I got it from a previous post on this forum - if someone knows who originated it, please give credit!
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File Type: jpg Q&D Wiring.jpg (96.9 KB, 38 views)
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Old 08-24-2020, 09:03 AM   #46
txmike
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Default Re: Spark Question

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I wanted to provide everyone a update - but first say thanks to all who have offered advice and help. To be brief; part of the problem was ME not knowing what I was doing. Not that you guys did not advise me correctly. I received my parts and installed them and still nothing.

I went to a guy who works on A's and and is usually very busy. So busy I cannot get him to help me. I offered to bring it to his shop or he could come to my garage. He came over and after about 20 mins it was running.

Again - 'user error' on install. He did out the one in with a ground wire as he too stated he did not like the modern lower plate.

Overall - put about 10 miles on it this week end. Shaking the bugs out and now can enjoy.

My dad and I started on this when i was in high school. Now I am 62 and he gave it to me before he passed but it was a body off frame etc. After many hours and $ I can now enjoy it and will always come here for any help.

many thanks again. God Bless and stay SAFE!
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Old 08-29-2020, 06:16 PM   #47
wmarcy528
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Default Re: Spark Question

What did he do to fix it besides getting rid of the modern plate? I’m dealing with a similar issue.


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