Topic: 4Runner Ignition Problems

[JCook5003]

Hey Guys-

I'm completley stumped, after swapping a new motor into my 89 4Runner (3VZE). I have no spark.

I've done the FSM tests and all the contacts in the distributor check out good, then I check voltage up to the igniter(ignition control module) and I have 12V, then I check voltage at the coil and I have 12V between hot side on the coil and the negative battery terminal. I pulled the coil and cleaned the bracket that I guess acts as it's ground to the fenderwell.

Seems like if I have voltage at the coil and no spark it could only be a bad ignition module, which I hope it isnt since they run $350 new.

Does anyone know another way to check the module to see if its bad before I go hunt a used one down to buy?

Also is it possible this could be a grounding issue? How would I know? I have a ground from the manifold to the firewall, exhaust manifold to the fenderwell, and the battery negative is grounded to the frame, is it possible I am missing a ground or have a bad ground connection, also how would I check that short of just pulling them all and cleaning them? The two small manifold ground wires are the only engine grounds should the battery negative cable be attached to the block? Could this cause a no spark condition?

Thanks
Josh

[superyota]

there should be a ground cable that attatches to the bolt that actually holds the ignitor on the coil down.  make sure it is attatched. also check the connectors that plug into the ignitor and coild and make sure they are clean and that they are getting a good connection. other than that, i'm not really sure.  i had the same problem with mine, but it was the coil and ignitor gone bad(don't know why they both went at the same time).  i also have a jacobs OMNISPARK that i'll have up for sale if your interested.  keep posted. 

[JCook5003 [OP]]

Cables are clean, ground is attached.

My coil checked bad initially so I replaced it, maybe it's not uncommon for them both to go out.

[superyota]

i guess not. both were bad on mine, and i've heard of other people having both go at the same time also. 

[yoter4x4]

sorry to bump an old thread, but could this be a common problem on say an 83 toyota with the 4 banger?

my truck runs like it has an unconstant spark, even after the voltage regulator, alternator, charging system wiring have been replaced and battery stays charged 

[superyota]

sorry to bump an old thread, but could this be a common problem on say an 83 toyota with the 4 banger?

my truck runs like it has an unconstant spark, even after the voltage regulator, alternator, charging system wiring have been replaced and battery stays charged 

sounds like you might have a distributor problem.  take the cap off and clean the inside of the distrubutor up real good.  let me know if you need one.  i've got a few laying around.

[yoter4x4]

i thought the same thing, either distributor or something in my ignition