'53 TO-30 starting problems

While I do not agree that it provides any increase in power,(power increases only if you have a misfiring ignition system as a basis for comparison) quick starts in all kinds of weather, smoother idle, and the maintenance free aspect appeals to me.

The quick way to check the spark is to pull the center wire out of the distributor cap, turn on the ignition switc, hold the wire near a good ground and try s atrat. You should have a FAT, BLUISH-WHITE SPARK. If you don't, start checking the primary ignition circuit from the battery through the key switch to the coil to the points and to ground. Make sure that the wire between the coil and the distibutor is attached to the coil connection that is th same as the battery ground. Don't forget to check the charging system to make sure that you voltage regulatoris not causing a greater voltage than about 13.6 V or you could be burning points.
Systematically mmake measuremenats and record the numbers. record any changes you make, one at a time, and record the results. Get back here if you need to consult with the folks on this forum. Good luck!

Regarding the recommended 13.6 V charging level, my dashboard ammeter shows just below the 15 V mark when idling (the gauge has 5 V increments). When the engine"s revved up, the meter jumps up substantially. Haven"t checked it under a load yet.

Pulled, inspected, cleaned the spark plugs, which were Motorcraft BTS10 (haven"t had a chance to get new ones yet). All except #4 looked good (relatively speaking). #4 was quite oily with alot of hardened black deposits. I doubt if it was even firing. Anyway, after cleaning it up and re-installing, the engine ran smoother.

Re: the Petronix system, is this something my local tractor supply or auto parts stores will carry? Or do you have to buy it online? Also, will I need to convert from 6 V to 12 V for the Petronix to work?

Thanks in advance gentlemen for your advice.

A capacitor or condenser is a dialectric device that stores electrical energy. Computers use a heap of capacitors to level out electrical energy. If you get the chance, get hold of one of those large can type capacitors, around 10,000 micro farads, 60 volts working, charge it up and put a wet finger across the points. Guaranteed to curl your hair!

I gave up and installed a Pertronix Electronic Igniter system. No condenser, no points - no problems!!! Easier starting, smoother running, quicker revving and more power.

Disclaimer: I am not associated with Pertronix in any way. Just happen to think their Electronic Igniter system is the greatest thing (for antique Fergys) since sliced bread was discovered and fail to understand why you all persist with primitive, Jurasiac condenser and points ignition systems!

:-)

• Ignition Systems