Technical information

AUTOTRONIC CONTROLS CORPORATION • 1490 HENRY BRENNAN, EL PASO, TEXAS 79936 • [phone] • FAX [phone]
www.msdignition.com email: [e-mail]
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MSD Spark Plug Wires
If you suspect a spark plug wire to be open, or the cause for poor engine performance, the resistance of each wire
can be checked. This will tell you two things:
1. That there is continuity (plug wire is not open).
2. That there is too much resistance in the wire.
Using an Ohm Meter, connect the terminals to the spark plug wire connectors. It is a good idea to try to push the
boot up, to ensure that a good contact is being made. The resistance should be:
A. Heli-Core Wire: 150 - 1,200 ohms per foot of wire
B. 8.5mm Super Conductor: 40 - 50 ohms, per foot of wire
NOTE: For other brand wires check with the manufacturer for their specifications.
Checking Pickups
You can check the resistance of the magnetic pickup of an MSD Distributor. Using an Ohm Meter, connect the
leads to the VIOLET and ORANGE wires at the two wire distributor connector.
A. The resistance should be: 400 - 1,300 ohms.
B. If the resistance is out of this specification, check all of the wiring connections. If the wires are okay, the
magnetic pickup is at fault.
TROUBLESHOOTING