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Replaced Thunderbolt IV ignition system with Delco EST

C

cnewton700

Member
I replaced my thunderbolt IV ignition system with a Delco EST due to a lack of spark. With the tach and the shift interrupter switch disconnected for the first start up attempt it showed the no spark problem was fixed as there were bursts of flames shooting out of my Rochester 4 barrel carb about 4-5 inches. No backfiring. It acts like it would start if I kept cranking it. Would being off setting TDC cause this? I used the finger in the spark plug hole setting it and I may have been off some. I'd appreciate any suggestions.
 
Yup, The old finger in the hole....

I would suggest you tubing how to find approx TDC on #1 cyl.

also what is the procedure for the new ign for timing?
Is there a wire that needs to be grounded/jumped to allow to be in base mode?
 
Yes, having the timing off can cause what you described...and I would say it is off a good bit.

I'd suggest bumping the engine around until 1) the rotor points close to the #1 plug terminal and 2) the TDC line on the balancer under the timing tab aligns close to zero. the two have to happen almost simultaneously.
 
Yes there is a procedure to get to base mode. It calls for inserting a supplied harness into a port on the distributor then connecting to a 12 volt source. Supposed to prevent the timing from advancing while adjusting the distributor. Once set, it is supposed to be removed. But the motor has to be running before inserting. I don't understand what you meant by "tubing how to find..."
 
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