No spark to the plugs

Tiny
TINY1980
  • MEMBER
  • 1990 GMC SIERRA
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • MANUAL
  • 70,000 MILES
I have no spark to the spark plugs. I replaced the distributor it's brand new. I have replaced the ignition coil. I have replaced the plugs and the wires but I still have no spark to the plugs even though I have power to the coil and the distributor what could it be please God help me.
Thursday, May 4th, 2023 AT 2:56 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,114 POSTS
Hi,

First, check to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes stored. This has an OBD1 system that doesn't require a scan tool. All you need is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Also, did the new distributor come with a new ignition control module? See pic below.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to make bigger)
Thumb
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Friday, May 5th, 2023 AT 11:12 PM
Tiny
TINY1980
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Joe,

Yes, it was a complete distributor with all the bells and whistles. Yesterday I got to checking my timing marks and TDC to the placement of the rotor and found I was about 20° out, so I corrected that. But still no spark. I just want to throw something out there, it is a standard transmission, how would I check to see if maybe it could be the switch that goes to the clutch? I also want to say that I have checked all the fuses and the relays, and they are also all in working order
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, May 6th, 2023 AT 2:41 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,114 POSTS
Hi,

The clutch safety switch won't prevent spark. It will prevent the starter from engaging, but nothing more.

As far as timing, even if the distributor timing is off 180 degrees, it won't prevent spark. It will just happen at the wrong times.

I want you to check something for me. You will need a helper. You indicated there is power to the coil. Do you have power to the coil when the key is in the start position? I ask because it could be related to the ignition switch.

Let me know.

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, May 6th, 2023 AT 7:03 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Related No Spark Content

Ignition Spark Check
GUIDE
Ignition Spark Check
An en­gine's ig­ni­tion sys­tem is re­spon­si­ble for ig­nit­ing the fuel-air mix­ture in­side the com­bus­tion cham­ber and when the ig­ni­tion process stops the en­gine will not run....
VIEW MORE