Questioni have a71 mgb and it is not getting spark to the points and plugs'i check the coil and it started my vw.i put new plugs and points and condensor and stioll no spark.any ideas,thanks
AnswerYou may have a double answer, and I had to rewrite it!
If the coil is OK, check:
1) 12V at the coil when ignition is on.
2) 12V at the points (the spring).
If both are dead, suspect the ignition switch. If only the points are dead, check the two tiny insulating spacers that separate the wires and the spring from the pin. The spring and the wires *must* be insulated from the pin, which is ground. It's unlikely that the condenser has much to do with it, but check the connection the other end, where it attaches to the plate.
3) Recheck your gap, especially that after you retighten the plate screws.
4) If all OK on the low voltage side, finally suspect the graphite bushing in the cap that connects the HV coil output to the rotor. This must be sprung and move freely in its socket. I've had trouble with these myself, especially in aftermarket caps. And when you remove it to attach the coil terminal they often don't go back in well. It must be free moving.
Good luck--
Jo
PS Forgot to note (9/21) : for checking the 12V distributor connection...the points can only be live (at the spring, from the coil) when they are open. When closed they are grounded.
