Nissan Repair: 1985 Nissan maxima wont start, nissan maxima, distributor shaft

Question
Have 1985 Nissan Maxima with 38000 miles. Drove the car and parked in the drive way and shut off car. Tried to start the car a few mintues later and it would not fire. pulled the ignition coil wire and put to engine block and had no spark. Does this mean i need a new ignition coil.

Answer
Jim,

I would first check the distributor since that is where the coil gets signal from.  Chances are good that the distributor shaft seal is leaking and oil is getting on the optics of the shutter wheel.  Pull the cap, rotor, rotor post and cover and look at the optical shutter wheel for the presense of oil.  If there is oil replace the distributor with a rebuilt unit.  Email me back if you need more...