NoFrills

i have an 88 EA fairmont that will not start. i lent the car to a friend and he said that he started the car and went to drive off but it just died. so i searched the forums and have found that the TFi module is a common problem so i replced it but it still will not spark, what else could be wrong?

NoFrills

and can someone tell me how to check if there is a spark. i dont know if i am checking it right by takin off a lead and looking in the end of it while someone cranks the engine?

Axeman82

I take the plug out and leave it in the lead and rest it on the rocker cover. Then get someone to crank the engine and I look for spark. I'd pretty sure it has to be earthed to get a spark..

I do not condone you doing this because if you get booted or short the car then I'll feel bad and you'll be shitty or worse..

But apart from the TFI it could be the dizzy, coil, or even fuel - can u hear the fuel pump prime when you turn the key to ignition?

If you have RAQC, NRMA or whatever the appropiate state roadside assistance mob is then get em to check it out - they'll tell you straight away if there is spark or not..

Additionally you can buy a spark tester thing that sits in the end of the lead and shoots a spark out.. Thats probably the safest way..

Try and get hold of a multimeter and do some basic tests on the coil, dizzy, etc with the help of a repair manual, its cheaper than just throwing parts at it..

Dan..

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NoFrills

i took the saprk plug out and with lead still connected i cranked it but no spark. i can't here the fuel pump prime but i pulled off a fuel line and fuel sprayed me in the face so there must be fuel pressure. i will have to get hold of a service manual. thanks anyway

Axeman82

That could be residual pressure. When you turn the key to ignition, do you hear a "click" after about one second? Its easier with the bonnet open.

BTW when installing a TFI you really should use some thermal compund grease becasue they are very heat sensitive - and so naturally ford put them near the block under the inlet manifold.

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NoFrills

yeah i hear a click when i turn the key, i didnt know that was the fuel pump tho

SiX_iN_a_RoW

That click is the fuel pump prime relay.
Easiest way to check for spark is to pull the lead off, stick a screwdriver in the end ( make sure it has an insulated handle ) hold the screw driver about 2-3mm off the shock tower bolt and get someone to crank the engine. You should see a blueish spark jump to the bolt. Do this for every plug.
If it doesnt have spark I would say the coil is dead, this is common on these cars

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NoFrills

i dont know what TBI or MPI means. if MPI stands for multi-point-injecton then that's what it is.

WhiteOx

If you've replaced the TFI and still have no spark ........ Try the coil.