Re: [DML] Unprotected DeLorean Ignition Circuit

[Farrar <fhudkins@xxxxxxxxx>]

Several months ago, the aux relay was removed to ensure that the 
ignition coil was getting 12 volts not only during cranking but during 
other vehicle operation.

A few months ago, I replaced the car's spark plugs, I replaced the 
original ignition coil with an MSD "Blaster 2" coil, replaced the spark 
plug wires with MSD wires, and bought a new cap and rotor. Apart from 
the spark plugs, all of these supplies I got from John Hervey, and they 
all performed fine.

The work done to the car a few weeks ago -- just prior to Gettysburg -- 
was installation of a new fuel pump, fuel line, fuel filter, intake 
manifold, and carburetor. We also replaced some coolant and vacuum lines 
while we were in The Valley. Also, in order to take advantage of the 
high voltage setup, the spark plugs were re-gapped: from the stock gap 
of .028" up to .050". About 1600 highway miles later, the distributor 
cap caught fire.

I don't think we'll ever know what caused the fire, but the most likely 
candidate would seem to be the extra-wide spark plug gap. When I replace 
the distributor, cap, rotor, and wires, I'll re-gap the plugs down 
closer to .040". The plugs are only a few months old and they're in fine 
shape.

Meanwhile, I have named my car "Sparky." :)

Farrar Hudkins
#2613

Jake Kamphoefner wrote:
> 
> 
>  
>  
> Bill,
>  
> If I recall correctly, you also made some modifications to Farrar's 
> ignition system while you were in there (spark plugs or coil or 
> something).  How are those working out?
>  
> Just keeping you honest!  This is the first time I've ever heard of a 
> failure like this on a DeLorean and I think it's important not to worry 
> new owners without being complete with the details of the 
> modifications.  I don't yet post to DMCTalk, but no worries as I've 
> heard that you post my material for me!
>  
> I feel sorry for Farrar and I wish I could help.  Let's help him get 
> that thing back together correctly so he can enjoy it.  I kept my eyes 
> open for you guys at DCS so you could see that I wasn't all bad, but I 
> couldn't find you.  I guess you'll just have to take my word for it...  :-)
>  
>  
> Jake Kamphoefner
> 1063

------------------------------------

To address comments privately to the moderating team, please address:
moderators@xxxxxxxxxxx

For more info on the list, tech articles, cars for sale see www.dmcnews.com

To search the archives or view files, log in at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnewsYahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/

<*> Your email settings:
    Individual Email | Traditional

<*> To change settings online go to:
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/join
    (Yahoo! ID required)

<*> To change settings via email:
    mailto:dmcnews-digest@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 
    mailto:dmcnews-fullfeatured@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
    dmcnews-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/