400 V8S running probs

[GSB]

I have just bought a 400 V8S that has not been started for at least 2 years. Once started, the engine will run for 30 seconds only. I have been told that the pulse in the distributor is faulty. Can I buy this part only, or do I have to replace the full distributor.

Thanks

GSB

[GreenV8S]

There is a pickup inside the distributor, these seem to be very reliable and I doubt it is the problem. Then there is an amplifier module. On mine this is screwed to the side of the distributor. I expect yours is the same. (Some of the later Griffiths etc have this mounted remotely.) These do fail from time to time and are cheap and easy to replace. Have you definitely diagnosed it as an ignition problem and not a fuel injection problem? If so that does make it a lot simpler to find and fix. It is just that failing after 30 seconds sounds rather quick for an electrical breakdown but roughly what you'd expect if the ECU wasn't keeping the pump running after the starter was released.

[GSB]

Taking the HT lead off and resting it across the exhaust, there is no spark. have replaced coil, dissy cap, rotor arm and ignition module (bolted to distributor). Can smell fuel, so would imagine its getting through !!

Thanks

GSB

[GreenV8S]

The ignition system is pretty conventional and a competant auto electrician should have no trouble tracking the problem down if it is repeatable. The difficult problems are the ones that only occur after 20 minutes except when your mechanic is waiting, or only at 70 mph when it is raining ...

For example if you disconnect the coil from the ignition module and earth it, you should get a nice fat spark from the coil (king lead to earth). If not, either the 12v supply is failing or the coil isn't working. Similarly by trial and error it is possible to work out whether the ignition amplifier is amplifying, whether the distributor is distributing, etc. If you can get a professional on the case I expect they'll whip through these tests in no time.

[GSB]

Thanks for the info, an auto sparky's looking at it on Saturday.