DISTRIBUTOR DIAGNOSIS/REPAIR REVISED PROCEDURE

Models Affected: 1982-84 Skyhawks

The following procedure for the 1.8L OHC engine (VIN codes O and J) is being supplied for your information. This engine is used on the Skyhawk from late 1982 to 1984.

1. A typical distributor used with a separately mounted coil is shown.

2. Check ignition coil with ohmmeter for opens and grounds:

Step 1- Use high scale. Should read very high (infinite). If not, replace coil.

Step 2- Use low scale. Should read very low or zero. If not, replace coil.

Step 3- Use high scale. Should not read infinite. If it does, replace coil.

3. Remove rotor and pickup coil leads from module.

4. Connect ohmmeter Part 1 and Part 2.

5. Observe ohmmeter flex leads by hand to check for intermittent opens.

Step 1- Should read infinite at all times. If not, pickup coil is defective.

Step 2- Should read one steady value between 500-1500 ohms as leads are flexed by hand. If not, pickup coil is defective.

6. Remove spring. Drive roll pin from tang drive and remove shaft assembly. Mark tang drive and shaft for correct reassembly.

7. To remove pickup coil, remove thin "C" washer (waved retaining ring).

8. Lift pickup coil assembly straight up to remove from distributor.

9. Disconnect wiring connection from module. Remove two screws to remove module. Test module with an approved module tester.

REASSEMBLY

10. Wipe distributor base and module clean,apply silicone lubricant between module and base for heat dissipitation.

11. Attach module to base. Attach wiring connectors to module.

12. Assemble pickup and thin "C" washer.

13. Assemble shaft, drive parts and roll pin.

14. Spin shaft to insure that teeth do not touch.

15. Loosen, then re-tighten pickup coil teeth to eliminate contact.

16. Install rotor and cap.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.