When a car engine cranks but doesn’t start, it is likely that there is no spark from distributor. Here are what you can do to troubleshoot this problem!
Contents
- What Does A Distributor Do In A Car?
- No Spark From Distributor: Why Does it Happen?
- FAQs on No Spark From Distributor
- Why might there be no spark only when the engine is hot, but it returns when it cools down?
- Is it possible for a grounding issue to cause no spark from the distributor?
- Why would a distributor work when cranking the engine, but stop sparking once it’s running?
- Why does my distributor have spark on only some cylinders but not others?
- Why the distributor lose spark only at certain RPMs?
- Final Note
What Does A Distributor Do In A Car?
A distributor is the key part of a classic car ignition system that is tasked with controlling the output of the ignition coil and setting the spark to the relevant cylinder. Going into more detail, the distributor works in conjunction with the coil to perform 2 functions:
- It makes and breaks the low-voltage or the circuit of the coil at precise timing to generate the high-voltage within the coil.
- Distribute the high-voltage or energy from the coil to the appropriate spark plug by the distributor cap and rotor arm.
The critical function of the distributor is to control the advance whereby the sparks occur earlier as the engine speed or low increases.
The distributor position needs to be carefully set so that the correct spark timing is obtained. This part also needs regular maintenance to ensure that the points cap and dwell angle remain correct.
No Spark From Distributor: Why Does it Happen?
Many car owners face trouble getting their vehicles’ engines to start. Firstly, it is imperative to confirm that the car engine has no spark. Make sure, to begin with, a fully charged battery before proceeding with testing.
You will be required to disable the fuel system and put in a spark plug tester. Eventually, seek the help of a person to crank the engine and look for a spark.
Once it is crystal clear that the engine has no spark, then the second step is finding the reason. Outlined here are some prominent reasons to help you find the issues.
Crankshaft position
First thing first, see if there is any broken or loose wire connecting sensors to the power control module. The Crankshaft position sensor can help you find the issue with the crankshaft.
This sensor tracks the rotational speed of the crankshaft. If the sensor stops working, it fails to send a signal to the ECU.
Read More: Thing People Often Misunderstood About Car Engines
An issue with the ignition module
When you are unable to start a car, you need to check the ignition modules. Transistor helps these solid-state switching devices control current flow and switch on and off with the primary winding of an ignition coil. So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that they act as mechanical points.
Some external input is required to help ignition modules do the task. Loose, broken, or corroded wires in the ignition module can be a reason behind no spark from distributor. Cleaning oxidized terminals and replacing broken wires is a good decision.
A problem with an ignition coil
The ignition coil turns the weak battery power into a powerful spark. Sometimes, a car runs for some time, and then the engine stops working. A faulty ignition coil could be a sign of such a problem in the vehicle.
Due to the increase in the temperature of the ignition coil or module, this problem arises. The good news is that it starts working once it is cooled down. An issue with the ignition coil results in the vehicle failing to start.
Cracked distributor cap
Checking the distributor cap is paramount when a vehicle stalls suddenly and fails to start again, check whether the inside or outside has some dirt.
It ought to be rust or corrosion-free. Besides, consider checking the working of the rotor and cracks on the distributor cap.
Faulty ignition switch
Mounted in the engine’s combustion chamber, the ignition switch is the weakest part of a vehicle’s ignition system. There are three positions in the ignition switch, which you will notice after inserting the key.
When switching to the “ON” position, the dashboard lights brighten up. If they fail to light up, it could be a sign of a bad ignition switch.
FAQs on No Spark From Distributor
Why might there be no spark only when the engine is hot, but it returns when it cools down?
This usually points to a failing ignition coil or pickup coil inside the distributor that expands with heat, breaking the electrical connection temporarily until it cools down.
Is it possible for a grounding issue to cause no spark from the distributor?
Yes! If the distributor housing isn’t properly grounded to the engine block, it can disrupt the entire ignition circuit, leading to no spark.
This is especially true in engines where the distributor serves as a ground reference point.
Why would a distributor work when cranking the engine, but stop sparking once it’s running?
This might be caused by a faulty ballast resistor or ignition switch that cuts voltage during the “run” position.
During cranking, a bypass circuit provides power, but it fails as soon as the key returns to the run position.
Why does my distributor have spark on only some cylinders but not others?
This could indicate a cracked distributor cap or worn rotor that’s not distributing spark evenly, possibly due to arc damage or physical warping inside the cap.
Why the distributor lose spark only at certain RPMs?
This issue may point to a failing pickup coil or a deteriorating ignition control module that cannot handle signal frequency at higher or lower RPM ranges.
Heat stress can also make the problem RPM-specific.
Final Note
Many people face the problem of getting their car engine started. No spark from distributor can be due to several reasons such as bad ignition module / ignition switch, or broken distributor cap.
Taking your car to experts is highly recommended because they can diagnose the problem and solve the issue as soon as possible.
Watch this video from Erik The Wrench to visually learn more about the no spark no start car problem!
