1988 at the mechanic

[Thriller]

On Friday I was bringing the Reatta home when it died. Electrical and starter seemed fine, so I was thinking timing chain. It turns out there is no spark. Any thoughts on the cause and whether parts are available or made of unobtainium?

 

On another note none of the rear lights are working...sigh.

 

Hopefully we get this all straightened out as this car is supposed to make the drive to Allentown. 

 

Thanks. 

 

[rogold99]

I would check the Ignition Control Module, especially if it is the old Magnavox coil style. A telltale sign is it will have goo oozing out from under the coil pack. Or could be a bad crank position sensor.

[padgett]

I always carry a spare ICM and coils in the trunk (usually the Magnavox that got swapped for a Delco). 5 minutes to swap if you only use 2 nuts.

[Thriller]

Thanks for the advice. I will let you know what the culprit is. 

 

[Thriller]

The ICM is faulty and the crank sensor signal is erratic so both are being replaced. Happily, parts are available locally so we should have it on the road by the end of the week. 

 

[padgett]

Personally I always replace the Magnavox with a Delco. Just bolts right in.