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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If for some reason you feel that you have a non-functioning MSD Ignition Control, this simple test can be performed
to determine if the MSD Ignition Control is functioning properly.
If triggering the MSD using the magnetic pickup connector (Violet and Green Wire) of the MSD:
A. Make sure the ignition switch is in the "OFF" position.
B. Remove the coil wire from the distributor cap and set the wire 1/2" from ground, such as the
intake manifold or cylinder head. Do not crank or attempt to start the engine.
C. Disconnect the magnetic pickup wires from the distributor or crank trigger pickup. Turn the
ignition switch to the "ON" position. Do not attempt to crank the engine.
D. With a small jumper wire, short the Green and Violet magnetic pickup wire going to the MSD
together several times. Continue to step E below.
If triggering using the White wire of the MSD Series Ignition:
A. Make sure the ignition switch is in the "OFF" position.
B. Remove the coil wire from the distributor cap and set the wire 1/2" from ground, such as the
intake manifold or cylinder head. (Do not crank or attempt to start the engine.)
C. Disconnect the MSD White wire from the distributor's points or ignition amplifier. Turn the ignition
switch to the "ON" position. Do not attempt to crank the engine.
D. Tap the White wire to ground several times.
E. Each time the magnetic pickup wires (Violet and Green) are shorted together or the White wire
is tapped to ground, a spark should jump from the coil wire to ground. If there is no spark
substitute another coil and repeat the test. After repeating the test with another coil, if a spark
still does not occur from the coil wire, remove the small "Red" wire from your MSD going to your
ignition key "On/Off" source and attach it directly to the positive (+) terminal on your battery.
NOTE: Attaching the "Red" wire directly to the positive side of the battery will cause the engine not to
shut off when the ignition key is turned off. If attaching the wire to the positive side of the
battery cures the problem, then you must find a different "On/Off" 12 volt source for the small
"Red" wire from the MSD. If after all of the above tests have been performed and no spark
appears, then your box is in need of repair.
In case of malfunction, the MSD will be repaired free of charge according to the terms of the warranty. When
returning an MSD Ignition Unit for service, proof of purchase must be supplied for warranty verification. After the
warranty period has expired, repair service is charged between a minimum and maximum charge.
Send the unit prepaid with proof of purchase to the attention of: Customer Service Department, Autotronic
Controls Corporation, 12120 Esther Lama Drive, Dock 5, El Paso, Texas 79936. The repaired unit will be returned as
soon as possible after receipt, C.O.D. regular ground UPS (unless otherwise noted) for any charges (Ground ship-
ping is covered under warranty). Be sure you include a detailed account of any problems experienced.
HOW TO TEST AN
MSD SERIES IGNITION CONTROL
Magnetic Pickup Trigger
White Wire Trigger