No spark! Options

[Steve73]

I'm trying to bring a dead 914 back to life. I have done the usual prep work and have hooked up the electrical system. The car turns over strongly but there is no spark! No spark at the plugs, no spark at the coil. I have switched the coil out with one I had laying around but i'm not getting any better results. Could it be the voltage regulator located in the box where the fuel injected controls are? (mine has been converted to dual carbs BTW).

What should I try next?

Thanks in advance!

[Steve73]

Thanks everyone but I still need some advice about the backfiring. I have the timing right for Carbs but I have what I think is a 009 distributor with no vacum attachments. Any adjustment advice is appreciated. I put up a vid of it running when I smooth out the engine. It does rev well with no hesitating or stalling.

[Prospectfarms]

Thanks everyone but I still need some advice about the backfiring. I have the timing right for Carbs but I have what I think is a 009 distributor with no vacum attachments. Any adjustment advice is appreciated. I put up a vid of it running when I smooth out the engine. It does rev well with no hesitating or stalling.

In my experience, when a "normal" engine "pops" while revving the throttle off idle, either the A/F mix is lean or the timing is incorrect. An OEM 914 distributor had a Bosch No. that end with 009; however, I think you are referencing the "Bosch 009 clone" or a new Bosch unit that are popular for aftermarket applications on AC VW engines.

I've observed that 009 dizzy's (centrifugal) advance curve vary significantly between individual distributors, and that the advance comes-on suddenly. This means it's prudent to be conservative with timing when using these distributors. (OT) Without a vacuum advance, I'd imagine you'd feel a flat spot or hesitation when accelerating.