Didn't make it home (first time)

Hi,

My CJ5 died yesterday evening - was running really well then all of the sudden motor stop running just like if someone turn the key off. I didn't get any hesitation, no stumbling no rough idle etc... Unfortunately I didn't have any tools with me - (I now learn my lesson).

I did check the fuel and it looks like its not a fuel issue... Accelerator pump squirt a healthy dose of fuel and the line from the tank to the pump also had fuel in it. The engine been hot, I figured it should have fired up, even for a moment just with the fuel from the accelerator pump but I got nothing when I crank the engine... so I suspect an ignition problem. Obviously without tools I could check for spark...

Could I safely jump a wire across the + battery post to the + side of the coil without burning anything up? That would eliminate any issues from the switch to the coil since I think the problem may be under the dash?

Thanks

 

You can do that to see if it fires up and runs. If it does, remove the wire and start checking your primary circuit. Before doing anything, pull the distributor cap and do a visual check for obvious failure.

 

Thanks - will try that

 

Yes and you can use that to drive home if necessary. If 12V, splice to the opposite side of any ballast resistor unless that is the problem. You could still go directly to the coil but it will likely eventually eat your points up. You have to keep in mind the obvious-that the only way to turn it off is to remove that wire.

 

Did you check the points? Points can wear and the gap close up to zero. If the points don't open or are burnt and don't make good metal to metal contact when closed, you will get no spark even if you jump the battery directly to the coil.

 

You still need to pull the jumper wire. Ignition is hot the whole time that is hooked up.

 

Well guys...

No luck, I jump a wire from the + battery to the + side of the coil and it didn't start... I then took the number one plug out and almost ground it against the block - no spark visible. The
jeep got fitted in the spring 2014 with an electronic distributor, a new coil (with the internal resistor), new spark plug wires, and new plugs. The battery is new (fall 2013) and kept on a battery tender most of the time. My ignition switch is questionable - I have a new one in my part box and the wiring is rather old (may be original?).

I didn't check if the rotor of the distributor was turning when I crank the engine? nor I checked if I could get a spark out the coil primary wire.

It's really frustrating because out of all the parts in my almost 50 year old jeep - the ignition is one area where all the big components are mostly new.

Anyhow - I have a business trip to take this afternoon and will be back on Wednesday, until then...

PS- never leave home without tools - will be new motto I was lucky I was back in town and not in the country

 

"Suspect the newest parts first..." (My motto!)

Especially when the "sudden total death" is so typical of electronics.

 

Well... after careful inspection with the help of a mechanic friend it appear that the problem is the OMIX-ADA Ignition module 17252.05 grr... Will know for sure when I replace the module which should be coming on Friday.

I am quickly finding out the poor quality of the overseas after market parts. Just wondering if there is a reliable US made electronic module that would fit my old distributor or should I just go back to my old point and condenser?

 

Omix-Ada does not have a good reputation on this forum.

Personally I have never had a problem with using points, if they are maintained as intended.