Points. Ignition points are a set of electrical contacts that switch the coil on and off at the proper time. The points are opened and closed by the mechanical action of the distributor shaft lobes pushing on them. The points have a tough job, switching up to eight amps of current many times per second at highway speed

How does an ignition system with points work?

When the ignition key is turned on, a low voltage current from the battery flows through the primary windings of the ignition coil, through the breaker points and back to the battery. As the engine rotates, the distributor shaft cam turns until the high point on the cam causes the breaker points to separate suddenly.

Do ignition points fire when open or closed?

Figure 1: Ignition points must lineup correctly when they are closed. If they dont shut (left), or arent aligned (center), the system wont work.

How do I set my ignition points?

2:484:16How to - Replacing Contact Breaker Points // Supercheap - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAdjust the points by locating the heel of the rubbing block of the contact breaker points. So itMoreAdjust the points by locating the heel of the rubbing block of the contact breaker points. So it writes on the cam of the distributor sharp.

Should ignition points spark?

Points shouldnt spark when the engine is running but they might while youre working on it. The points are the grounding circuit for the primary side of the ignition coil. If the secondary side is not completed - spark plugs in and hooked up, (make sure the plug leads are good) you can get a spark across the points.

What causes ignition points to burn out?

The usual causes for pitted or burned points are setting the points too close or having a bad condenser.

How often should you change ignition points?

Theyre used constantly – every time your car is cranked and then the entire time the engine runs. This puts a lot of wear and tear on them (hence the reason better, more durable ignition systems have been created for newer cars). In general, you can expect your points and condenser to last around 15,000 miles or so.

How do you test ignition points?

Test for continuity between the block and the stationary point attached to the distributor plate. Rotate the engine until the points are closed. Use the multi-meter to test for a good connection between the points. A slight gap when the points are supposed to be closed will keep your machine from running.

How do you clean ignition points?

1:223:31How to clean points - YouTubeYouTube

What does a ballast resistor do?

In simple terms, the ballast resistor in a Mopar limits the amperage, or current flow, through the coil while the engine is running, thereby extending the life of the coil and breaker points of the distributor.

How do you set ignition timing with points?

Set Your Timing Last The dwell, as well as spark plug gap, do have an effect on ignition timing. The later the points open, the later the spark comes and retards the timing. The earlier the points open the sooner the spark comes and advances the timing. That is why timing is the last thing to be set in a tune-up.

How can I make my ignition points last longer?

Points will last until the rubbing block wears out if you have electronic ignition. Put on a dab of points grease the size of a match head each time you service them and they will last a long long time.

What happens if you dont use a ballast resistor?

If the ballast resistor is not working properly, the vehicle will not start. Since it is an electrical system, it is something best left to the professionals to handle. The only way to have the vehicle up and running again is with a ballast resistor replacement.

What happens when a resistor fails?

When a resistor fails, it either goes open (no connection) or the resistance increases. When the resistance increases, it can burn the board, or burn itself up.

How do you troubleshoot ignition points?

8:2414:17Troubleshooting Conventional Ignition Systems Autolite Spark PlugsYouTube