Hi,

My son picked up a 1980 RX7 that's not getting any spark. According the Haines manual, our next step is to test the igniter, but the instructions don't make a lot of sense. First the book says to disconnect the couplers leading away from the box. I'm assuming these are the two couplers behind the box connected to the two rectangular looking parts that are attached to the igniter box itself--true?

Then the manual says to check for continuity between the two "disconnected couplers" . . . hmmm, the couplers are no longer connected to the box, so what am I testing? Am I really supposed to check for continuity between the two couplers I've just disconnected from the box?

Then the instructions say "testing the other terminals" should give continuity, but "terminals" infers,a t least to me, the metal tabs coming out of the two rectangular things behind the box.

So, I guess what I'm really asking, is how do I test the igniter on an '80 RX7 and exactly where should I have continuity?

Thanks,
Ron

 

there is a way to check it. I made my own using this diagram. Let me know if you need help on this one.

 

use a ohm metter and test on the 1-2000 scale. you can only get a reading one way mine were all uasally bettween 1750-1860.
if you get a reading both ways if found its toast.
i was confused cause the haynes manual said if any above 1000 is toast seemed to be untrue

easey way is to just use the spark plugs to idenify if your getting spark

 

1980 Factory Service Manual (FSM) in the 1st Gen FAQ's section. Chapter 5, page 15 has the steps for checking the igniter along with schematic of how to test it (Fig. 5-56). Good luck.

 

All,

Thanks for the inputs. Will see what happens--maybe the dealer will let me copy the page out of the service manual--hate to spend too much money in case the vehicle isn't worth repairing. Geez . . . I HATE ignition problems!!!

Cheers,
Ron

 

the fsm is online for free its in the first gen section of the forum and it is stickied to the first page in the entry that says FAQ

 

Here's what I did. A litlle overkill, but nice to have.

https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...hlight=ignitor

Rich

 

Which side is not getting fire? Leading or Trailing?