78 304 V8 - no spark

[gumbo]

Looking for a little help. I have searched this forum, the internet, and even under my bed and still have nothing so I decided to start a thread.

Background:
I have a 78 CJ5 with a AMC 304 V8 that are known for igniotion issues, yet this is the first time I have ever had a problem and I cannot seem to put my finger on it. Like with many electrical issues the Jeep ran perfectly until one morning it simply didnt run.

Things that have been tested and or replaced:
1) Tested for spark at motor - none - replaced all 8 plugs (just incase)
2) Have spark at the coil
3) Replaced ICM
4) Replaced distributor

Here is where it gets interesting - after putting in a new distributor the Jeep starts right up and runs great, doesnt skip a bit, and sounds and runs like the timing is perfect as it was before it quit on me.
After driving the Jeep around for a bit I decided to park it and wash it. 15 minutes later, it will NOT START AGAIN.

I have traced wires, added an additional ground between the ICM and the distributor and retareced witres, switched between the new and the old ICM and had them checked at Autozone to be in working order.

I know the general suggestion is to go HEI and that may be the end result, but given my stubbirn nature I would like to resolve the issue given that it seems like all the major components of the ignition system are in full working order.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Saddle Tramp]

Maybe this will help:
http://www.junkyardgenius.com/ignition/jeep/jeep01.html

 

[JR74CJ5]

This might be too simple, but i like to start simple, could it be your spark plug wires?

Mainly since your getting spark from coil... But not plugs, the main from coil to center of distributor cap?

Also great link was above

Also it might sound wierd, but try to watch motor in pitch dark while someone (or with jumper) turns over the motor. Looke for spark escaping.

 

[BusaDave9]

You have a good spark at the coil but not at the spark plugs.
I say the wire from the coil to the distributor. That spark you have at the coil just needs to go to each spark plug. That's the job of the distributor. The rotor should send the spark to each terminal. If no plug is firing it must be something common to all. You already replaced the rotor along with the rest of the distributor.

 

[gumbo]

Seems it was the Jeep gods testing my nerves, or as I like to call it a short. I traced and "checked" every wire and still nothing. Came home after work and it starts right up, timing is as good as can be. Figers crossed I dont get stranded.

Thanks for the help all.

 

[JR74CJ5]

You have a loose ignition wire somewhere

I would check the ignition switch wires, I ended up soldering all my connections.

Yours is a ways newer, so probably more of a pain in the than mine. But it's not fixed bud, and not to be the bearer of bad mojo, but it will leave you stranded somewhere down the road...




~ JR

 

[coldair]

you said wash your jeep? did you get water in the distributor?