Weak spark

[54fleetwin]

I just replaced, coils, condensors and points on a '58 fastwin 18,
Both plugs spark however they dont seem to be strong sparks.
The engine does run.

Reading in the secret files, I was unclear as to the coil adjustment.
Should the coils be even with the unmachined portion of the posts or with the machined portion?

I have them set even with the machined portion and wonder if they are to far away, if moving them closer will increase the spark strength.

I reused the stock wires but cut 1/2 inch off the ends to get to the uncorroded copper.

Also what is the right champion pug?, Napa shows J8C but I thought it would be lower like a J6C.

TIA

 

[kbait]

Re: Weak spark

J4C champions are indicated.

If by 'machined' you mean the little bevel on the top outer edge, then I set mine to the unmachined edge. (outermost toward flywheel). You'll know right away if they're too close to the flywheel by turning the flywheel clockwise after you put it on. You don't have to torque it down to test coil placement.
Good luck!

 

[54fleetwin]

Re: Weak spark

Any concerns with running J6C equivalents?

 

[lindy46]

Re: Weak spark

Mount coil lamination flush with the mounting boss. See pic. If you troll alot, use the J6C - they're a little hotter and won't foul out as easily.

 

[54fleetwin]

Re: Weak spark

Okay, I mounted these even with the edge of the bevel, so moving these closer to the flywheel should provide stronger spark?

 

[bktheking]

Re: Weak spark

You mounted them correctly if they are even with the bevel, leave them. Do the wires , you'd be surprised what old wires can do for spark.

 

[kbait]

Re: Weak spark

I was wrong!.. Coils mounted even w/machined edge like in photo, so you had it correct. Moving closer won't help if theyre mounted like that photo..

 

[54fleetwin]

Re: Weak spark

Well I juyst did coils, points, condensors on my other '58 fastwin and the spark on this motor is a helluva lot better.
Trying to think what I did different, 3m pad on the flywheel magnet because I noticed some rust, I dont remember checking the magnet on the other 18.

 

[asdasc]

Re: Weak spark

I just replaced the plug wires on my '59 and was amazed at the difference. The thing runs strong now, even on a very heavy pontoon boat.