Primary Ignition Tests

Fig. 1 Schematic view of American Motors solid state ignition system less electronic feedback system:

Fig. 2 Schematic view of American Motors solid state ignition system with electronic feedback system:

1. Turn ignition switch ``On'' and connect a voltmeter between ignition coil positive terminal and the ground. If voltage is 5.5-6.5 volts, proceed to Step 2. If battery voltage is noted, proceed to Step 4. If voltage is below 5.5 volts, disconnect condenser lead. If voltageis not 5.5-6.5 volts, replace condenser. If voltage is still not within specifications, proceed to Step 6.
2. Turn ignition switch to ``Start'' and measure voltage at coil positive terminal while cranking engine. If battery voltage is present while cranking engine, the ignition coil primary circuit is satisfactory. If voltage present is less than battery voltage, proceed to Step 3.
3. Check for shorted or open circuit in wire attached to starter ``I'' terminal.Check for defective starter solenoid. Repair as necessary.
4. Place ignition switch in ``On'' position, disconnect wire from starter solenoid``I'' terminal and measure voltage at ignition coil positive terminal. If voltage drops to 5.5-6.5 volts, replace starter solenoid. If voltage remains constant at battery voltage, connect a jumperwire between ignition coil negative terminal and the ground. If voltage dropsto 5.5-6.5 volts, proceed to Step 5. If not, repair defective resistance wireand repeat Step 2.
5. Check continuity between ignition coil negative terminal and terminal ``D4'',Figs. 1 and 2. Also, check continuity between terminal ``D1'' andground. If continuity is present, replace electronic ignition control unit.If continuity is not present, locate and repair open circuit.
6. Turn ignition switch ``Off'' and measure resistance between ignition coilpositive terminal and the dash connector ``13'', Figs. 1 and 2. If resistance is greater than 1.40 ohms, repair or replace resistance wire. Ifresistance is 1.30-1.40 ohms, proceed to Step 7.
7. With ignition ``Off'', measure resistance between dash connector ``13''and ignition switch terminal ``I1'', Figs. 1 and 2. If resistance is greater than .1 ohm, check and repair terminal connections at dash connector or defective wiring.