1983 Subaru DL 2D HatchbackFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition System - HITACHI: Testing: Notes

  1. Turn ignition switch "ON". Connect negative lead of voltmeter to ground and positive lead to negative terminal of ignition coil. Voltage should be within 1 volt of battery voltage. If not, proceed to step 5).
  2. If reading was within 1 volt of battery voltage, turn ignition switch "OFF" and check distributor air gap. Adjust if necessary. See ADJUSTMENTS .
  3. Disconnect wires from primary terminals of ignition coil. Set ohmmeter on the x100 scale. Check coil primary resistance by attaching ohmmeter leads to positive and negative terminals. Reading should be 1.04-1.27 ohms. If not, replace ignition coil.
  4. Next, check coil secondary resistance. Set ohmmeter on x1000 scale. Attach ohmmeter leads to coil negative terminal and coil tower (wire removed). Reading should be 7,360-11,040 ohms. If not, replace ignition coil.
  5. If the reading in step 1) was not within 1 volt of battery voltage, turn ignition switch "ON". Check voltage at positive terminal of ignition coil. Connect voltmeter negative lead to ground and positive lead to coil positive terminal.
  6. If reading is not equal to battery voltage, check wiring between ignition switch and positive terminal of ignition coil. Repair or replace as necessary. If OK, check connector, switch, fuse and wiring back to the battery.
  7. If reading at coil positive terminal was within 1 volt of battery voltage, disconnect the lead at ignition coil negative terminal (coming from ignition control unit). Turn ignition switch "ON". Voltage at negative terminal should be within 1 volt of battery voltage.
  8. If voltage is within 1 volt of battery voltage, but engine will not start, replace pick-up coil/ignition control unit or wiring. If not within 1 volt, remove lead from tachometer (if equipped) at ignition coil. Turn ignition switch "ON", and again check voltage at negative terminal of coil.
  9. If reading is now correct, but engine will not start, check for a short in the wiring harness from negative terminal of coil to tachometer. If in step 8), reading was still not within 1 volt of battery voltage, replace ignition coil.
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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.