Thread: Installing a New Dizzy into a 4Cyl Rover Engine.

I guess the first question is - Have you confirmed that it actually produces a spark at the coil? For example, when you manually open the points with the ignition on.

If it does, then there are two possibilities - the spark is poor quality (just about has to be the capacitor) or the distributor cap is faulty in some way. One possibility, assuming there are new leads on the new distributor is that the leads are faulty or not connecting properly at either the distributor or plug end.

This assumes you have the timing and firing order right, which seems a reasonable assumption seeing that you can get the old one going OK.

One thing that should be checked - does the distributor have the correct rotor button? (Not sure how you tell for certain!)


If no spark, check the low voltage circuit step by step. The most likely problem is the earth link from the breaker plate, but also check that the points are not shorted by incorrect assembly.

John

If it is a new dissy, it probably is fitted with new points. New points come with a preservative coating on the contacts, and that preservative is a very good insulator!

Clean the contacts with a petrol soaked rag and see what happens.

Originally Posted by JDNSW

I guess the first question is - Have you confirmed that it actually produces a spark at the coil? For example, when you manually open the points with the ignition on.

If it does, then there are two possibilities - the spark is poor quality (just about has to be the capacitor) or the distributor cap is faulty in some way. One possibility, assuming there are new leads on the new distributor is that the leads are faulty or not connecting properly at either the distributor or plug end.

This assumes you have the timing and firing order right, which seems a reasonable assumption seeing that you can get the old one going OK.

One thing that should be checked - does the distributor have the correct rotor button? (Not sure how you tell for certain!)

If no spark, check the low voltage circuit step by step. The most likely problem is the earth link from the breaker plate, but also check that the points are not shorted by incorrect assembly.

John

Thanks John,

I think that you may have hit the nail on the head... I'll check the earth link wire from the breaker plate to the distributor body connection.. (I didn't think to check it as it's supposed to be brand new.) As this is the only thing I forgot to check..

Wolf

Originally Posted by Charlie

If it is a new dissy, it probably is fitted with new points. New points come with a preservative coating on the contacts, and that preservative is a very good insulator!

Clean the contacts with a petrol soaked rag and see what happens.

I used the points, rotor and cap from the old distributor, and same thing. I think that John, may have solved it for me. Will check it out tonight when I get home..

Many Thanks
Wolf

After a lot of stuffing around, I finally got her started with the new dizzy. The problems were numerous, low in fuel, dizzy #1 piston position reversed, point gap needed resetting again, etc.

I've ordered all new components, dizzy cap, rotor, points, capacitor, coil etc., so when I get them next week, I'll put them in and see how it goes.

There is one thing I noticed, was that when I rev her high, I get a pop in the dizzy.. Anyone know what would cause that.. (Not only happens when I rev the engine high)

I also have another quick question.. What does the #5 on the engine mean?? See photo attached..

I really don't know - mine has a "3" there. I would think it is just a batch number or subcontractor number for the head casting.

As far as I am aware it has no significance.

John