Pertronix Ignitor Bad?

[brent615]

I just purchased a 71 TR6 and haven't even turned the engine over yet. I was workking on changing all of the fluids first. I have discovered it has a Pertronix Ignitor and Lucas coil. I was told by the previous owner that there were "electrical" problems. After reading other post about Ignitor, I am wondering if someone left the key on and fried it. If so, would the engine still turn over but just not fire up?

When the battery is connected I get lights, radio, and gauges but no turn signals, can anyone tell if the turn signals should work when the car is not running? The ignition switch/key feels "stripped" for lack of a better word. You turn teh key all the way to the right and it doesn't spring back to the left. That doesn't seem normal. There is also an unknown toggle switch between the heat control and choke...could it be a starter switch? I have tried to email the previous owner but he is not going to be back online for a day or two and I can't wait to get started (pun intended!).

 

[Brosky]

It sounds as if you have multiple problems caused by DPO syndrome.

Do you have a good voltmeter, test light and fused jumper wires? If not, cool down on the getting started idea and get these basic tools together to start checking rather than frying wires.

And yes, the turn signals should work with the key on, but as you know there can be an ignition issue if it's left in the "on" position. That is not the "accessory" position, which should be no problem.

I'm attaching a Pertronix trouble shooting and an Ignition switch wiring diagram for you to review as well.

Good luck!

 

[brent615]

Thanks. I'll give those both a shot.

 

[Brosky]

Brent, I'm curious as to how you've made out so far?

 

[brent615]

Pulled the radiator tonight and am thinking about having it re-cored due to the amount of rust inside. Any thoughts on boiling it vs. re-coring vs. replacement?

Also pulled the two front wheels to inspect the brakes and try to feel out the condition of the bearings. Everything looked pretty good.

Input on next step is welcome....

 

[billspit]

Let the radiator shop be the judge of whether to recore or just boil out. They can test the flow. On second thought, given the age of the car and the history of overheating in TR6s, you may want to go ahead and recore with a bigger core.

 

[YankeeTR]

I'd get it running first....worry about overheating, etc. AFTERWARDS...

 

[Flinkly]

i second getting it running first, then you can properly judge what needs to be done. trust me.