CJ7 Just won't start!

[GabeCJ]

Hi guys I bought a 1976 CJ7 a couple of weeks ago and it just won't start. I replaced the ignition module, and coil and i bought a new distributor for it since it didn't come with one. The problem is that i only get spark up to the wire that goes from the coil to the distributor but there's no spark to the plug wires. I also need some help with distributor timing since the jeep didn't have one when i bought it so i don't think i placed it in correctly. I have had no previous jeeps so i don't really know about them so please bare with me. The engine is a AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l 2 barrel i6 that is from 1980 (i checked the block cast number) and it's a 3-speed. I really appreciate the help anything helps i just really need to get this jeep running since it's my dads birthday in 1 week and i want to give it to him as a present. (i can post pictures if that helps) Thanks and once again I really appreciate it.

 

[GabeCJ]

Bump. Anyone?

 

[Torxhead]

CJ ignition systems were changed in '78 so is your system wired for the '76 ignition or an '80? If it is wired for the '80 you should be o.k. One thing that comes to mind is a bad pick up coil in the distributor. This can be accessed thru the orange and purple wires at the distributor plug. Disconnect it and you should be getting 600-800 ohms between them on the distributor side. Make sure the black wire in that harness is grounded out.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Did it run when you bought it?
LG

 

[JR74CJ5]

I replaced the ignition module, and coil and i bought a new distributor for it since it didn't come with one. The problem is that i only get spark up to the wire that goes from the coil to the distributor but there's no spark to the plug wires.

Definitely sounds like something in the distributor is failing to send the spark through the wires to the plugs. Even if the distributor was 180 out, it would still spark, just at the wrong time. I think researching the ignition system you have for troubleshooting is quickest (I'm not up to speed on them) - In mine I would start with rotor and cap, and make sure everything is spinning correctly inside while cranking it.

You may just not have it fully engaged into the engine, and therefor the rotor is not spinning and sending out spark when turning it over...

I also need some help with distributor timing since the jeep didn't have one when i bought it so i don't think i placed it in correctly.

Bring the number one to TDC on compression stroke (put thumb over spark plug hole and feel the pressure) and set the distributor in with the rotor pointing to the correct spark plug wire position on the cap (in a nut shell) and small adjustments from there. Here's a good write up I found from searching Google

Installing Distributor - Off-Road Forums & Discussion Groups

(i can post pictures if that helps)

It always helps