The Ford Barn

Conaway2 · 08-19-2019, 04:00 PM

As I was driving my ‘31 Model A home from the local gas station yesterday, the engine suddenly died. A little roadside diagnostic work suggested an ignition issue - confirmed later after being towed home.

Points and condenser were replaced several months ago, engine timing is right on. Although there is absolutely no spark, the ammeter shows deflection as the starter cranks the engine over - from the points opening and closing.

I suspect the coil, although I guess the condenser could be part of the issue as well - it’s an original style one installed in the original distributor.

The coil is an original one - almost 90 years old. I‘Ve never had a coil failure on this car in the 50 years I have owned it.

Has anyone else experienced a sudden coil failure ?? Thoughts ??

Thanks - Jim

08-19-2019, 04:00 PM	#1
Conaway2 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2019 Location: Mt. Pleasant, SC Posts: 601	Coil failure ? As I was driving my ‘31 Model A home from the local gas station yesterday, the engine suddenly died. A little roadside diagnostic work suggested an ignition issue - confirmed later after being towed home. Points and condenser were replaced several months ago, engine timing is right on. Although there is absolutely no spark, the ammeter shows deflection as the starter cranks the engine over - from the points opening and closing. I suspect the coil, although I guess the condenser could be part of the issue as well - it’s an original style one installed in the original distributor. The coil is an original one - almost 90 years old. I‘Ve never had a coil failure on this car in the 50 years I have owned it. Has anyone else experienced a sudden coil failure ?? Thoughts ?? Thanks - Jim