CLASSIC IGNITION (ENGINE 1,2)
Engine 1,2 is equipped with a conventional ignition system, which consists of an ignition coil, the ignition distributor, high voltage cable and spark plugs.
Checking and replacing the ignition distributor
Remove the cover from the manifold and inspect, the ignition wires are properly seated in the dome seats. The rubber caps at the ends of the cables must not be porous, nor cracked; otherwise they need to be replaced. Remove the bubble from the manifold, releasing the springs (Bosch distributor) or by unscrewing the screws (Delco manifold). The dome must be completely dry and clean inside. Wipe the bubble with a cloth and check, whether there are any signs of microcracks. which may cause electric leakage.
Check the ease of movement of the carbon electrode in the dome. Remove the electrode and spring, clean and reinsert. The spring tension must not be changed. To check, that the four electrodes in the dome are not burned out. Minor burns can be removed with sandpaper, while in the case of large burnouts, which may be a failure of the capacitor, the bubble should be replaced.
The distributor shaft should be regularly lubricated with a few drops of engine oil, which is dropped onto a felt pad. In the Bosch distributor, lubricate the socket of the vacuum regulator pulling rod. Check the condition of the circuit breaker contacts. Grey, clean contact surface proves proper operation of the ignition system. On the other hand, the contacts burnt out or with a blue bloom suggest a damaged capacitor or ignition coil. Oil and dirt form a crust on the contacts, which you should carefully scrape off (do not use sandpaper or a file for this), and then wash the surface with tetrachloromethane.