My freinds camaro stalled out when he was driving and now it will only run when the starter is cranking, once the starter stops cranking the car gets no spark. So doesn't the starter give the first spark? so then would this mean the coil is bad?
thanks

 

Sounds like the wiring to/from the starter is getting crossed somewhere.

 

Check the distributor for 12volts (pink wire; on two wire connector) with the key on. If there's no 12v then the engine dies when you release the key from the start postion.

If it's not a wiring problem, then the ECM is missing a signal (like the (fuel pump switch; normal open, closed by oil pressure.)

There are other possiblities, need more info.

Keep us posted so that others learn from your experience.

 

Its a carbureted car, no computer, but doesn't the starter give the engine the first spark? is there a chance that it can be the coil?
thanks

 

Originally posted by shwine617 [/i]
"My freinds camaro stalled out when he was driving and now it will only run when the starter is cranking, once the starter stops cranking the car gets no spark."

Point type distributor or electronic distributor?

Bob

 

pretty sure its a points

 

Originally posted by shwine617 [/i]
"pretty sure its a points "

OK, now we're getting somewhere. Most point type distributors have a ballast resistor that drops the coil operating voltage in order to prolong point life. This resistor is by passed during starting, providing the coil with the full 12 Volts for a hotter spark. When the symptom you describe occurs, it's usually because of a defective ballast resistor. See if you can find the resistor and check it with an ohm meter. It should read about 3 ohms.

Bob