Common Engine
Ignition System Wear
Symptoms
Hard starting, misfiring, poor performance, backfiring through the carburettor.
Cause
Points-type ignition with a mechanical distributor. Points wear, condenser fails, distributor shaft bushings get sloppy, advance mechanisms seize. Old plug leads leak voltage to ground.
Fix
Service the distributor: new points, condenser, rotor, cap.
Check and set dwell and timing.
Lubricate the distributor cam and advance mechanism.
Replace plug leads with quality silicone items.
Fit new spark plugs (correct heat range).
Many owners convert to electronic ignition (Pertronix or similar), eliminates points wear and improves reliability.
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