Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

So I had the carb rebuilt re installed w/ new fuel filter has the no spark issue again. It had been sitting for about 3 months or so . New points and condenser were installed last time it was running. Replace them again? Any insight would be helpful. Mike.

1) There has to be power to one side of the coil when the ignition is on.

2) The points, when closed, have to provide a ground for the other side of the coil so that electricity will flow through it. Disconnect the wire to the dist. The continuity setting on a test meter is handy, or you can rig a light bulb from your battery to the terminal on the dist. The bulb must light when the points are closed.

3) The points must open and break continuity as the engine turns. The coil fires at the instant the points open.

4) At this age, ignition switches are often iffy. See point 1.

5) Points may have oxidized while sitting and are not conducting. File them with a new point file--old dull ones won't do a thing. Or, I prefer 600 or finer sandpaper folded double and dragged through. Follow with the edge of a 3x5 card to clean up.

Good suggestions all. Begin with the battery connections. Clean the post and the inside of the cable clamps; reinstall. Go to the other end of the battery cable; remove it and clean the mounting area, the cable end and the washer. Reinstall.

jack vines