MG Car Repair: 1972 mg midget electrical problems, coil wire, light key

Question
I recently was able to purchase a '72 midget as a project car for my grandaughter and her father to 'work on' One of the big issues that we have encountered is that it doesn't appear to be getting any 'spark' to the plugs..I have changed the coil thinking that was it; but it wasn't..The points appear to be in good shape and I assume the condensor is ok also...any ideas?? Thanks in advance

Answer
Hi Mike,

How did you test the points and condenser? You scare me when you say "appear to be good and assume".

The test procedure is to first confirm 12v at the coil, then rotate the engine until the points are open and test the points arm with a test light (key on) or volt meter to confirm 12v. Then rotate the engine until the points are closed and test the points arm again. (key on) no light / no voltage.

If everything is correct up to that point remove the coil wire out of the cap and hold it about 1/4 inch from any metal part of the engine and open the points several times (key on) and you should get a spark to jump at the coil wire. The dist cap is already off so if you get a spark then put the end of the coil wire about 1/4 inch from the canter of the dist. rotor and open the points again (key on) If you get a spark to jump to the rotor, it is bad and must be replaced before any other tests can be run.

Let me know,

Howard