dlp@akgua.UUCP (dlp) (02/07/86)
On the problem with the Hillman (or any other car that has been sitting for a long time) that won't start. Symptom: Fuel to carbs. No spark. Check Points: I assume the points are in good shape and adjusted properly. Go inside a dark garage or place a blanket over you and the engine. Remove the distributor cap and rotor. Crank engine and check for sparks at the points. If spark at points then this is the probable culprit: YOUR ROTOR IS BAD. Yes folks, we never bother to check these little gremlins, but they do go bad. The problem is that the rotor may not be visibily cracked. Over time and especially with long storage grease, oil, and carbon build up on the rotor and it provides a direct short to ground for the high tension. SOLUTION: Try and clean the rotor if you don't have a replacement. Ultrasonic cleaner with stuff to remove oil, grease and carbon. The best solution is to just put in a new rotor. This is not a self-evident problem unless, like me, you've had it happen to you and the only way you found it was to dismantle the ignition system until nothing was left to suspect except the rotor. Unfortunately on British cars this doesn't have to happen just when the car is left for a long period. It has happened to me while riding down the road in my 54 MG. Get a new rotor. Try it. You'll like it! Press on Regardless. from Dan's English Car Garage D. L. Philen akgua!dlp