External Spark In Ignition Coil

[milkyway]

1999 5.0L Alpha

Summer is here again!

I just started my motor today after winter layup. Motor started but noticed spark noise and noticed visible spark activity in the coil tower. Checked wire for tightness and restarted the motor, same visible spark can be seen at 6 feet away from the coil. Turned of motor and restarted. Same sparklers off the top of the iginition coil.

Is my ignition coil toasted? All was fine during winter preparation.

Thanks.

 

[Don S]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

Yea, you problably have a cracked coil tower. One thing that does cause that to happen is bad plug wires, or even a defective spark plug.
Usually there is a noticable miss to the engine, at least to a trained ear.

 

[milkyway]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

I will re-check all wires and plugs for loose connections and try it again. I removed all these last fall when winterizing. Maybe something's just loose.

Thanks for your reply.

 

[RCSConstruction]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

I will re-check all wires and plugs for loose connections and try it again.

Thanks for your reply.

I think Don was also to referring to the "condition" of the wires. Bend them and looks for cracks in the sheathing. I had the same thing happen on a truck motor and the wire had a bare spot where it rubbed on something.

 

[milkyway]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

I will check that too. Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

I think Don was also to referring to the "condition" of the wires. Bend them and looks for cracks in the sheathing.

Plug Wires can Look Fine,+ Still be Junk........

Test them with an ohm Meter..........

 

[88wellcraft]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

The housing on my coil was cracked and it was doing the same thing.

 

[Coors]

Re: External Spark In Ignition Coil

And while replacing it, see if you have room to mount it off the engine. Get it away from the heat.