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Old 09-18-2011, 04:10 PM
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ndutton ndutton is offline
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I'm in the middle of testing an ignition system theory and the initial round included measuring coil temperature. On my good running A-4 with Pertronix ignition and an oil filled flamethrower coil mounted on the engine, from a cold start the coil reached 170 degrees within 30 minutes. I'm not suggesting this is good, bad or otherwise, just what I measured.

Regarding the high alternator voltage, that could also be due to a compromised exciter connection. I suggest you check all the wires and connections related to the alternator including its mounting, that's where it picks up its ground.

As a test for the coil, you can run your engine for a little while with the alternator removed. See if it runs cooler.

And a final thought, without the proper resistance type spark plugs and plug wires the coil can overheat too.
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1977 Catalina 30
San Pedro, California
prior boats 1987 Westsail 32, 1970 Catalina 22
Had my hands in a few others
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