1983 Volkswagen Rabbit Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

System Spark Check

  1. If vehicle will not start or does not run properly, ensure first that starter speed is normal and that fuel system is OK. If so, check secondary voltage.
  2. Remove coil high tension wire with suppressor from distributor cap. Hold wire approximately 3/8" from engine ground, using insulated pliers.
    CAUTION: Wire must not be hand held for this test. Each end of wire should be equipped with a 1000-ohm suppressor.
  3. Crank engine and check for a constant blue spark at gap to ground. If there is no spark, proceed to Idle Stabilizer Check. If there is a good spark, but engine would not start, suspect externally- damaged ignition coil.
  4. Check to see if sealing compound is oozing from coil housing. If damaged, replace ignition coil and proceed to Control Unit Voltage Check.
  5. If coil was not damaged, check coil high tension wire, distributor cap, rotor, spark plug wires, spark plugs, (fuel system and engine mechanical components have already been determined OK).
  6. Rotor arm resistance should be 600-1400 ohms. Resistance of spark plug connectors should be 600-1400 ohms (suppressed) or 4000-6000 ohms (not suppressed). Suppressor resistance should be 600-1400 ohms. Replace defective parts if not to specifications.
  7. If components in step 5) were not defective, check for proper ignition timing, centrifugal advance, or vacuum advance. If OK, problem is not with ignition system. If ignition timing is not to specifications, adjust timing or repair ignition distributor.
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.

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