Newbie MGB ignition problems

[mihank]

1978 MGB difficulties starting, intermittant spark at the plugs, irractic spark at the points but good spark from the coil, any suggestions?
Hank

[Flash75]

Good spark at the coil usually means the high voltage lead from the coil to the center of the distributor has a good spark. Points usually have a make and break voltage, but no spark. Good spark at the coil would also indicate the points are functioning as intended. With this information can you give a better description of your problem? At the plugs there should be a spark only once for each two engine revolutions, so the spark at the plugs will be intermittent based on the movement of the rotor in the distributor. If the spark at the plugs randomly goes away and returns, I would try another rotor.

Welcome to the forum.

Clifton

[paul J]

Originally Posted by mihank

1978 MGB difficulties starting, intermittant spark at the plugs, irractic spark at the points but good spark from the coil, any suggestions?
Hank

Check the dizzy for shaft wobble. Make sure the mechanical advance springs are in place. Make sure the mechanical advance "IS" working and the weights are not frozen. Also check the braided ground wire going from the point base plate to the distributor body. They have been known to break and cause a simular problem.