Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Bob,
for including your '40 One-Twenty Convertible Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry. Love to see a photo of it.

I just installed all new original points after getting rid of electronic ignition, so there is a condenser. I really think you hit on the problem. Some component is robbing the spark plugs. If I can get it to start as easy as a roll off, I 'll have a new car, since I have replaced almost every other thing.

I'll keep you informed after we do the tests.

Thanks again,

Bob

Several have had issues with NOS points and other contacts that have been on the shelf for years. They can develop an oxidation or high resistance coating on the contact surfaces.

It may not help but certainly would not hurt to get a contact burnishing tool or else use some thin rough feeling cardboard or a fold of heavy paper on the surfaces. Place the tool or cardboard between the points and hold them together with some gentle pressure as you pull the tool or material thru. Don't use sandpaper as that can leave grit on the surfaces.

You can get an idea if there is excess resistance by measuring the voltage at the coil or distributor terminal. With key on, clean points and a good ground from distributor to block, when the points are closed the voltage measured between the terminal and ground should be very close to 0 volts.

Can we assume you have proper size battery cables (at least 1 gauge and preferably 0 gauge) and that the connections especially the ground connection to the frame are clean and tight?

Another clue, 6V electronic ignition is very sensitive to low voltage. If the battery is low or if there is much voltage drop due to the starter drawing too much or poor connections then a 6V electronic ignition may not work.

Fred's right on.

Most don't realize that in the primary ignition circuit there are 16-18 connection points from battery post to battery post.

A little voltage loss here a little there and it soon adds up, the clue here is that you got rid of an electronic ignition. lower then 4.5 volts measured at the ign module and they flat don't work.

You need to measure the voltage from the neg. coil terminal to the pos. batt. terminal with the starter engaged.

John

As OD said do you have the right size cables and good connections all around. I thought my cables were good, but I installed a new pair and it fire right up, somewhere the old cables, although they looked good, had resistance in them somewhere that was causing the engine to crank over slowly and it didn't have enough power to start the engine.
Have you checked out "Serviceman's Training Book: Engine Diagnosis and Tune-Up" at:packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/article/view.article.php?144
Good helpful information on troubleshooting.
Wes

I HAD THE BATTERY CHECKED AND IT HAD A VOLTAGE DROP WHEN THE STARTER WAS ENGAGED. NEW BATTERY SEEMS TO HAVE SOLVED THE PROBLEM.

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP

BOB

I continue to be surprised at how many problems a bad battery can provide. This should be a lesson for all of us.

(o[]o)

Bob,

Thanks for letting us all know how you solved your problem, ASK THE MAN WHO FIXED ONE!