No Spark 1949 Ford *

[MM in SC]

Hey Guys,
My tractor, 12v alternator, 1949 8N front mount distributor, quit running and I diagnosed it as no spark using the plug-in tool that allows you to check how much of gap the spark will jump. The tractor had electronic ignition and upon opening the distributor cap, I found it was fried. Not wanting to spend another $140, I put the points back in using the old plate with new points. I think what happened is the pigtail made contact with the plate retaining ring. I trimmed the ring to make sure there would be no more contact.
I replaced the cap, rotor, and coil. I have a little less than 12v going into coil, but no spark. I have points set at 15 and timed the distributor. I did all the continuity tests using my ohm meter and all checks out. Coil checks as well. Still no spark.
Any ideas? Getting a little frustrated at my inability to fix this issue.
Thanks

 

[HFJ]

u should have full battery voltage at the top of the coil with points open, and about half with them closed. a healthy, fully charged battery should be about... 12.7(?) volts.

 

[Bruce (VA)]

" I have a little less than 12v going into coil,"


Then you have a dead battery.

At 100% charge, you should see 12.65 volts.

At 11.89 volts, the battery is dead.

Charge it and check it per tip # 49.
75 Tips

 

[MM in SC]

Thanks to both of you. I had just bought a new battery for another vehicle that is about the same size. Installed and tractor fired right up. Runs better than ever! I'll get the correct battery for the tractor.
Thanks for helping me end a frustrating day on a happy note!