Ignition problem

[ggfossen]

The old 420 was running well until last year. While under load, it began cutting out, and then running well. The cutting out episodes seemed to increase. It sat for a few months, and I tried to start it. It wouldn't fire. It's now been sitting for about a year, and I finally got back to it. Now, it won't fire at all, and there is no spark at the points.

This was a complete rebuild in about '08 or '09. It had new coil and distributor parts.

I'm thinking maybe the coil has failed, but I don't know much about testing it. Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Gary

[DukeofDeere]

Check to see if you have good + and - at the coil. A test light will work.
If they are good lightly file the points......a new 100 dollar bill works well or a points file.
If no gain, replace the coil.
Make sure you get rye right one.....
6 volt if set up as original.

Duke

[DukeofDeere]

You may want to check your ignition switch also when checking power to your coil....

Duke

[Gil]

You may want to read the thread of this previous post: http://www.jdcrawlers.com/messageboard/ ... light=coil
Gil

[vtjoe]

I have a 57 420 and have owned it since 1981 and when I used it alot to help build my Vermont homestead, everything was fine but now that it sits alot, it can be be a problem to start. It sounds to me that your points are oxidized (or starting to) and need to be filed (lightly usually). Sometimes it takes a little more effort. What i do is try to bump the motor over until the points are closed a then slip my points file in between (key off)and give it a little file. After that with key turned on only, just move the points apart with a screwdriver and if there is a spark...you will have plug spark also!!! Give it a try
Get a double side points file from your local cars parts store good luck