willysmjeeps.com

I got this PM from a member and I feel it should be shared with all members for all to learn.

wes, while getting the m38 running last nite. while setting the point gap and making sure it had fire, notice arching around the dist plate and under the plate. although it fired up and ran good im alittle concern with the arching. any ideas what could cause this. thxs

Arcing at the distributor plate (where the points and condenser reside) is either the result of a bad ground or a high current leakage through the condenser to ground, the points to ground or a wire to ground. Also often referred to as a short.

yep it kinda looked like lightning during a thunderstorm. the arcing from jumping from points to the screw that hold the plate down. arcing under the plate. looked like 4th july. i'll take everything back loose and check the wires.

could a bad engine ground cause this?

thxs

I'd start with the terminal insulator on the points. Then check the wires to the coil and make sure they don't have any bare spots or evidence they are or were pinched.

ok i'll inspect in a few days and let ya know. thxs