It's been a while since I last replaced my points and condensors, according to my records, 6,100 miles. So today I pulled the point cover to inspect and adjust...both sets were smooth, no pitting or metal transfer. Reset dwell on 1-4 to 48 on the four cylinder scale, check timing with inductive timing light.. Right on the F mark. Repeat for 2-3 cylinders. Applied point grease, cover back on.Done, took a few minutes. Back in the day, automotive points were usually changed at 15,000 mile intervals, so I expect something close to that. Something I never do...turn the ignition key on without the engine running; if I must work with the key on, say to work on a signal ground, I'll pull the point cover and place a piece of paper between the points contacts before I energize the system. Some may disagree, but I believe leaving the key on can damage points, condensors, or coils. One major reason I like using a dwell meter, if I don't get a dwell reading, something is wrong...dirt on the contacts, loose connections, or short to ground. No dwell=no run. Makes a no start situation much easier to figure out. Having difficulties changing points? Try this; replace only set 1-4, set the gap, if using feeler gauge, be sure you are not "on the cam"; your points will be too far open, and may remain open when they should be closed when cranking engine. The result; no dwell, no start. Now, start engine, set timing for 1-4. Now, repeat for points for cylinders 2-3, set gap, then set timing. Simple, easier to keep track of which wires went where. Your thoughts?
