1988 Toyota Camry Base, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Spark Test

  1. Disconnect high-tension wire from distributor. On models with integral ignition coil, disconnect a high-tension spark plug wire. On all models, hold wire about 1/2" away from ground. If a spark plug wire was disconnected, connect a spark plug to wire and ground the plug.
    CAUTION: On fuel injected models, crank engine for no more than 2 seconds.
  2. Crank engine and check for sparks. If sparks occur, check for other source of starting problem. If no sparks occur, check connection of ignition coil, ignitor and distributor.
  3. If connections are good, check resistance of high-tension wires. If resistance is out of specification, replace wires. See IGNITION HIGH-TENSION WIRE RESISTANCE  table. If wires are okay, go to step 4).
  4. Check the power supply to ignition coil and ignitor. Place ignition switch in "ON" position. Check for voltage at ignition coil positive terminal. If voltage is present, go to step 5). If not, check wiring between ignition switch, coil, and ignitor.
  5. Check ignition coil resistance. See IGNITION COIL RESISTANCE TESTS . If coil resistance is correct, go to step 5). If not, replace ignition coil.
  6. Check pick-up coil resistance. See PICK-UP COIL RESISTANCE TEST  in this article. If resistance is correct, go to step 7). If not, remove coil and replace distributor assembly.
  7. Check air gap between reluctor and pick-up coil. If air gap is incorrect, remove coil and replace distributor assembly.
  8. Check ignition (IGT) signal from ECU if air gap is correct. See COMPUTER CONTROL SYSTEM article. If ignition signal is okay, try another ignitor.
IGNITION HIGH-TENSION WIRE RESISTANCE

Application Ohms
Camry 25 k/ohms Maximum Per Wire
Factory Service Tools

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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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