1.8 not running right, need help., after Petronix install, uninstall. Update - running! Options

[Cevan]

I had gotten a Petronix electronic ignition module (1847V). Prior to installing it, the car had been running great with the points (I know, should have left well enough alone). I installed it per the instructions and cranked the motor over but nothing. I checked all my connections and cranked it over again and nothing. So I removed it and put the points back on.

When I go to start it, it seems that only 2 of the cylinders are firing. It was definitely idling low. My CHT gauge never really moved (it's on #3) so I suspect that 3 and possibly 4 are not firing. I drove it about 1/4 mile and no power.

Could I have flooded 3 and 4 when I had the Petronix unit on? I'm going to let the car sit overnight and try it again in the morning. Could I have damaged something with the Petronix unit?

[Cevan]

I'm shelving the Pertronix for now. I'm trying to figure out why it won't run with the original points back on. My Haynes manual has a procedure for testing the coil which I'll try after work tonight. If the coil is damaged, would it still run as I described?

[pete914]

When I installed my pertronix I hooked up my wires to the coil backwards. I actually matched the connection that the points system was using...BUT IT WAS BACKWARDS!!! Anyway it just turned over and over.
I was about to ditch the system until I got out a mirror and saw the +/- sign under the coil. Switched the wires and it fired right up. No problems now.

I think you put the the dizzy on in too retarded a position. did you recheck your timing? lack of power and missing cylinders would make sense.

I doubt you damaged anything permanently. The only thing that would get damaged in what you did was the unit itself.

I do think pertronix units are more durable than people say. I had mine hooked up backward and was cranking it for awhile and it still didn't burn up...