Testing an ignition coil on an Alfa 147

[len_beach]

My girlfriends Alfa has always had a nagging little misfire at very low rev's. I have replaced all 8 spark plugs and cleaned the coil terminals which initially cured the problem but it has since returned.

I have now come to the conclusion that a coil is breaking down. Is there any way of testing the pencil type coils fitted to these engines?

 

[BrianR]

You need special equipment for doing that.
Have a very close look at the insulation for hairline cracks, you need good light and a magnifying glass.
They can cause "tracking" which will in turn cause the spark to break down and a mis-fire.

 

[Mike@Rentech]

http://www.unicheck2000.co.uk/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=25

works very well, I use the Mac tools version.

 

[TomTom]

http://www.justoffbase.co.uk/s.nl/it.A/id.36472/.f

A very basic version of what Mikes said really. They light/don't up and go dim etc

*Edit* Dont know anything about ALFAs, this might not fit/work.

 

[Dan@SJM]

Contact a guy called Mike Buckler, at rusper alfa near gatwick, he is excellet with the alfa's and will nigh on diagnose the fault from what you tell him.

 

[len_beach]

Cracking guys, something to go on there. I've got my eye a cheap coil on Ebay so will give that a crack along with the inspection of the coils for cracks. I'll give Mike a call as well tomorrow.

Strange how I get more answers to the question on a Clio forum than I do on 2 Alfa forums.

Out of curiosity, what do you actually do Brian? There appears to be no end to the wealth of your knowledge.