System Starting Test

1987 Chrysler Fifth Avenue 5.2 4SECTION System Starting Test
  1. Turn ignition on. Disconnect coil wire from distributor cap. Hold end of coil wire approximately 1.4" (6 mm) away from a good engine ground. Intermittently ground coil negative terminal, using a jumper wire. Look for a good bright Blue spark.
  2. If spark is acceptable, intermittently ground negative coil terminal while slowly moving coil wire away from ground. Look for arcing at the coil tower. If arcing occurs, replace coil. If spark is weak or no spark is produced, perform failure to start test. See FAILURE TO START test in this article. If spark is acceptable and there is no arcing at coil, check ignition system secondary circuit.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.