1981 Triumph TR7 Automatic TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition System Check

  1. Check battery voltage for at least 11.5 volts. If less than 11.5 volts, charge battery. If more than 11.5 volts, attach voltmeter positive lead to coil positive terminal and negative lead to ground. Voltage should be within 1 volt of battery voltage.
  2. If incorrect reading is obtained, check wiring between coil positive terminal and ignition switch. If voltage was within 1 volt of battery voltage, attach positive voltmeter lead to coil negative terminal and negative lead to ground. Voltage reading should be more than 2 volts.
  3. If voltage is incorrect, disconnect wire leading to control module (amplifier) at coil negative terminal. Again check voltage at coil negative terminal. If less that 2 volts, replace ignition coil. If more than 2 volts, replace control module.
  4. If voltage in step  2 was correct (more than 2 volts), disconnect control module from distributor. Turn ignition switch "OFF" and attach leads of an ohmmeter (set to high scale) to distributor pick-up coil leads. Resistance reading should be 2200-4800 ohms. If not, replace pick-up coil.
  5. If pick-up coil resistance is correct, connect control module to distributor. Attach voltmeter positive lead to coil negative terminal and negative lead to ground. Measure voltage. Then crank engine and voltage should fall. If not, replace control module.
  6. If voltage fell in step  5, but system still is not operating properly, check high tension wires, ignition coil secondary, rotor arms, distributor cap and spark plugs.
Factory Service Tools

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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.