Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Checking Ignition Cables, Distributor Cap and Rotor

CHECKING IGNITION CABLES, DISTRIBUTOR CAP AND ROTOR





Condition

- Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in Motronic 4.4 absent.
- Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in AW 50-42 absent.
- Engine at normal operating temperature.
- The fault is permanent.

Possible Source

- Defective rotor/distributor cap.
- Damaged ignition cables.





Checking Ignition Cables

- Ignition OFF.
- Remove all ignition cables.
- Check the distributor cap, rotor and ignition cables for signs of damage, cracks and arcing.
- Measure the resistance in each ignition cable.

Resistance should be 1.81 - 5.46K Ohms depending on length, at +20°C (68°F).

- Replace ignition cables that are damaged or that have incorrect resistance.
- Check that there are no loose connections between the ignition cables and distributor cap and between the ignition cables and spark plugs.

- Then proceed to test step below.





Checking the Distributor Cap and Rotor

- Remove the distributor cap.
- Check distributor cap and rotor for damage, cracking and arcing.
- Clean or, if necessary, replace components which may be damaged or faulty.

Was a fault detected?

Yes:
- Operation done

No:
- Replace any damaged components.
- Then proceed to Checking the Spark Plugs section.