No voltage to distributer... I have a theory...

[investig8]

Hello All and Happy Belated Halloween!
Beautiful weather today so I thought I'd try to start my truck for the first time... No Luck! So, first check was plugs and wires to make sure I was getting spark to the cylinders... None! Next I checked voltage at the distributer... None! I know I have voltage to the ignition switch because I can see gauge reaction when I turn it to ON. I have a new wiring harness and used information on this site to plug into the ignition switch... At this point I think I just need to purchase a new switch, as I am using the old one... any other thoughts or ideas?
Thanks once again for your help,
Dennis

[ashyers]

I'd bypass the switch and see if you get voltage at the dizzy.

[NAM VET]

Goodness knows I am no automotive electrical specialist, but have had to track down a few failed connections on my own truck. Assuming it started and ran the last time you tried it, before you replace your previously working switch, I would check each of the connections, especially the grounds, to see if some corrosion has interfered in the interim. Like A's suggestion above, start by cleaning connections, from the switch to the distributor, I use a lot of electrical spray cleaner occasionally.

Something which has helped me checking connections: I taped two square 6 volt batteries together, then soldered wires to their terminals to make up a 12 volt source, and use a multimeter gage to see if suspect connections are live or dead. Their tiny amps won't activate any thing, but will record volts on my multimeter to see if the circuit is intact. My truck is all 24V but my test unit has solved no end of problems for me.

Good luck on getting back on the road.

NV

[investig8]

Thanks for your input gentlemen, Because I am working with a new wiring harness and old ignition switch, I believe the next best step is to bypass the switch to see if I get voltage to the distributer... I feel that the switch is the only possibility at this time. Will keep you posted...
Thanks again,
Dennis

[investig8]

Thanks again for your input gentlemen... Turns out the faulty part with my problem was ME!! In double-checking the wiring and switch, I found that I wired the switch incorrectly. I'm proud to say that once that was corrected, despite the fact that she has been sitting for as many as fifteen years, she busted right off !!
Thanks again,
Dennis

[Kaegi]

thats great. better than having faulty issue you cant find!

[NAM VET]

things to do with electrons have always baffled me, auto, household, even simple flashlights. I just spent an afternoon repairing a Lego battery pack for my grandson. I think it will work. I have used and learned, at least somewhat, how to read and interpret an auto wiring diagram when working to make every thing work on my own truck, and adding some switchers or changes and things like my full flow oil filtration system. I had to buy a sack of assorted fuses to get it working, at least so far.

I have thought about seeing if my local community college has some sort of auto electronics course, just to gain some knowledge and confidence with pesky electrons.

Glad you got your own switching problem sorted out. Stay safe, and have a great TG holiday. And of course, thanks to all the Veterans on this forum. Welcome Home!

HC, aka NAM VET.