Engine cut out and backfire

[James k]

I've just bought a new condenser, I haven't fitted it yet though. When I had a look in the engine, I noticed that the fan belt is very loose. The fan can be easily turned by hand without moving the belt at all and when the engine is running, it slips and wobbles about. I'll tighten it up later when I do the condenser. Could this be something to do with it?

[James k]

I've now fitted the new condenser and taken it on quite a tough drive (lots of hills etc.). It's been fine so far and hasn't been jerking like it was yesterday so fingers crossed it was the condenser. It also seems to have slightly more power uphill. I'm still worried that it's just temporarily behaving itself though. I'll just have to wait and see. I also noticed while I had the distributor cap off that the black low tension lead inside is badly frayed. I was wondering if this could cause problems by arcing. I put a bit of electrical tape on it and did my best to make sure it was secure and wouldn't foul anything.

[dalebrignall]

get electronic ignition fitted and keep the old distributer as a spare , ive got a accuspark fitted and no problems

[bmcecosse]

It could well have been that LT lead... But as above - treat yourself to a brand new 45D dizzy from Simonbbc or Accuspark - for Christmas.... and put all these worries behind you !

[James k]

I may well do. Is the 45d superior to the 25d and are the new ones as good as the old? Also, are they easy to fit and set up? I was thinking of getting a new points distributor rather than electronic. I've heard stories about electronic units failing. Also, I (strangely) like the idea of my car having points.

[bmcecosse]

Up to you - but those who have bought the electronic ones seem very satisfied ..... I would get the newer/later designed 45D.. Fit and forget.....

[Chipper]

You can buy 'universal' 45D4 dizzys on E-bay that have the points, from around £35, which is a bargain for a brand new dizzy:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Morris-Minor- ... 2a0c27ddfe

I bought one when I rebuilt my Midget engine's original 25D4 and it worked well, albeit with a slight flat spot, owing to the different advance curve.

But, if you want a cheap, reliable replacement dizzy, then the 45D4 is certainly worth considering. I've kept mine in the garage as a spare, just in case...

[James k]

This one comes with points and the (apparently) more reliable red rotor arm http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Morris-Minor- ... 19c19e39fe . What are the advantages of the 45d over the 25d? Is it just a more reliable, better design? Would there be any problems with the advance curve on a Morris Minor? I imagine I will get one of these because of the frayed wire and general old age appearance of my distributor. Plus, I have no idea if the vacuum advance works. I tried sucking it to test it today but it was far too unpleasant so I stopped

[chesney]

Better design, longer rotor arm and wider spaced leads supposedly reduces stray sparks. I've used a 45D in a 1098 Minor and it worked fine, also used a standard 25D in Minor with no ill effects whatsoever ;) Have tried a new 25D distributor, and was most frustrated when I broke down one evening having fitted it due to the advance springs stretching and flying off, leaving me pretty stranded (had it not been for a spare dizzy in the boot).

[bmcecosse]

Spend the extra and get the electronic version....

[James k]

Have the electronic ignition systems improved now? When I've looked at older threads, researching electronic ignition, you used to recommend sticking with points bmc. Are the current electronic ones more reliable?

[bmcecosse]

Yes - when it's a DIY kit I suggest sticking with points - but these fully fitted dizzies seem to be well received - I may even treat my own car to one !

[James k]

My only worry is that something might go wrong with the electronic ignition and that it's not as easy to repair as points. I don't really want to have to carry a spare electronic unit. Although if they are really reliable then I suppose I wouldn't need to worry. Plus, I do sort of like having original, straightforward systems in use (in this case points). But if the reliability is that much better, I could be persuaded to change.

[panky]

Just carry your old dizzy around just in case, if you have it stashed in the boot you'll never need it

[dalebrignall]

all i will say is ive had electronic for 10 years and no probs what so ever carry your old one in the boot as a spare be the best 45 pounds you have ever spent

[MikeNash]

Well I'm blowed! I never thought I'd see the day when Old Roy would recommend electronic ignition! What next? Disc brakes and superchargers?
Stunned and amazed I remain yours, MikeN.

(And a Happy Christams to you all.)

[Chipper]

Yes, though his recommended version will probably involve several tube valves, lumps of coal, some tin foil and a cat's whisker.

[bmcecosse]

[don58van]

That's two of you on Roy's naughty list !!!

D

[Chipper]

I was merely hinting at the man's inventiveness.