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Classic/Antique Car Repair/ignition system for 1950 Chevy 3800 truck (216 engine)

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Expert: - 3/1/2008


Question
I purchased a 1950 Chevy 3800 a couple of weeks ago but am having trouble getting it up and runing.  The engine turns freely, sthe starter sis fine, but I get no spark.  How do I troubleshoot to determine the source of the problem.  I've replaced the coil and spark plugs.  The distrubotor cap/rotor, points and condenser appear to have been repalced fairly recently.  So where do I start?  

Answer
Just because the points and condenser look new that they are ok. A test light or a voltmeter will check the voltage getting to the coil, and through the coil when the points are open. That is the test light attached to the coil connector that goes to the distributor. When the points are open and the key on, the test light should glow. When the points are closed the test light should go out. If the light is on when the points are closed the points are defective and will need to be replaced. Check that and then get back to me.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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