1989 Mercury Tracer 2D Hatchback, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Distributor Signal (Tracer)

  1. With distributor plugged in, connect test light between distributor Yellow/Blue wire and ground. Crank engine and watch test light. If test light does not illuminate go to next step. If test light illuminates, proceed to step 4.
  2. Turn ignition key to "ON" position. Using DVOM, measure voltage between distributor Black/White wire and ground, and White/Black wire and ground. If reading is greater than 10 volts, diagnose for mechanical problem. If reading is less than 10 volts on Black/White wire, proceed to next step. If reading is less than 10 volts on White/Black wire, go to TESTS W/CODES article.
  3. Place DVOM on 20-volt scale and turn ignition key to "ON" position. Measure voltage between ignition switch Black/White wire and ground. If reading is greater than 10 volts, repair Black/White wire from ignition switch to coil and/or distributor. Also, check fuses. If voltage is 10 volts or less, proceed to TESTS W/CODES article.
  4. With coil connected, connect test light between tach pulse connector and ground. Crank engine and check for test light flash. If test light does not flash, repair Yellow/Blue from coil to ECA. If test light flashes, proceed to next step.
  5. Carefully backprobe wire and connect test light between ECA terminal M on 24-pin connector and ECA (ground) terminal. Crank engine and check for test light flashes. If test light does not flash, repair open in Yellow/Blue wire from distributor. If test light flashes, crank engine and check for good spark. If spark jumps tester gap and vehicle will not start, ECA is defective. If spark does not jump tester air gap, recheck secondary spark system or check for a mechanical problem.
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When to See a Mechanic

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

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

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