Which ignition coil?

[Brendan The Spit]

Hi,

So, now the weather's improving I've decided to replace the coil, because the car really does not like the hot weather and several people reckon it's the coil (basically misfires badly but no smell of petrol).

I've taken a look through my manuals and it seems fairly easy to do - just whip out the old unit, put in the new (ensuring I disable the battery first of course).

But, I'm not sure what unit to buy. Ebay lists lots: http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0&_nkw=spitfire+1500+ignition+coil+ballast&_sacat=0&_from=R40

It's for a 1976 Spit 1500. The current unit says its by Intermotor, and has a number 11050 on it. When I look online this is what I find: http://www.autopartoo.com/oem/intermotor/11050rrq.html - which doesn't seem quite right to me? Then this thread looks like it could be ok: http://www.tssc.org.uk/index.php?option=com_fireboard&Itemid=28&func=view&catid=213&id=70831

I've also read that you can get high-performance coils that aren't ballasted. I really don't want anything fiddly, just new for old so the car runs properly again, not too pricey but then again not bargain basement (ie ideally I'd like to avoid cheapo Chinese imports).

What would you recommend? If not Ebay, any particular sites eg Rimmers (http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GCL132HP)

Thanks
Brendan

[Richard B]

I'd say go to either Rarebits, Canleys or James Paddocks.

If you want a like for like correct fitment.

[PaulB]

Your misfiring problem when hot may not be the coil, it could be petrol evaporation. The carbs sit right above the exhaust which gets very hot and in hot weather the petrol can evaporate before reaching the engine.

I would try replacing the coil first but if that doesn't solve your problem, I would possible fit heat shields by your carbs and ensure there is good flow of air around them and possibly some exhaust insulation tape. Although I have only fitted heat shields to my car and she runs fine now.
Good luck.

[Richard B]

If it runs rough, misfires when hot & stationary (in a traffic jam for example) then it could be the heat shield.

If whilst moving at 30mph or more then I'd look to the ignition circuit.

I suspect you model has the ballast resistor integral to the loom (PITA).

[Brendan The Spit]

Ah, this is so reminiscent of the original thread where I posted about this!

[Sorry, link no longer available]

I've been through the iterations and I think the coil is the strongest candidate, not least because several independent sources reckon that's what it is. I know, I know, it could be other things but that's the one I'm going to go for.

Regarding units, I have a strong feeling that the current coil is actually not suitable. I'm probably going to go for the Lucas model at Rimmers (http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GCL132HP). If anyone thinks this isn't the right one to go for, please let me know!

Thanks
Brendan

[uksnatcher]

I would go for (and swear by) Lucas Gold 6v coil, you want part no: DLB110 with ballast:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LUCAS-High-Performance-12v-Ballast-Sports-Coil-DLB110-/150678873918?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item231529273e#ht_576wt_1399
(same as the Bros but a whole lot cheaper..;) )

OR

Lucas Gold 12v without ballast Part number DLB105:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LUCAS-High-Performance-12v-Ballast-Sports-Coil-DLB110-/150678873918?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item231529273e#ht_576wt_1399