Wet rotor arm?

For all technical questions. VIEWABLE without login, you need to register (free) to be able to post a question.
Post Reply
Bengineer_92
Registered User
Posts: 19
Joined: Mon Feb 16, 2026 8:56 am
Has thanked: 5 times

Wet rotor arm?

Post by Bengineer_92 » Tue Nov 03, 2026 10:58 am

Hi all,

A while back I was having issues getting my 1994 24V started which, after loads of help from yourselves (thanks again) and a comprehensive overhaul of most of the ignition system, I was able to trace back to a dodgy air intake temperature sensor which was sending whacky readings to the ECU and messing with the air/fuel mix.

Since getting that sorted the car has been running great over the summer (it even went to France and back with no issues) however, now it's colder and getting damp overnight again, I'm suddenly having very similar issues getting the car started again.

The only bit I didn't touch in my previous works was the distributor. Given how well it was running and how the only thing that's changed is the weather I'm now wondering whether leaky distributor caps and resultant moisture ingress affecting the rotor is a known issue with these engines? I've found some info online already saying it can be possible but thought I'd check with actual owners before I start taking it apart!

Thanks in advance.

Micron
Site Admin
Posts: 3685
Joined: Thu Sep 06, 2018 6:08 pm
Location: South Norfolk
Has thanked: 66 times
Been thanked: 103 times

Re: Wet rotor arm?

Post by Micron » Wed Nov 04, 2026 7:52 am

Hi Ben,
I would start and look to see if the dizzy cap is damp or wet on the underneath? I can't remember off the top of my head, but check the seal around the cap (if there is one?) I would also give the contacts that feed each lead a clean, as well as the rotor.

Early Ford Probe dizzy's are prone to failure, does your car still have the immobiliser fitted and working? If it does, I would recommend that it is bypassed.
Admin and Owner of this fine club 😎

Location : South Norfolk

mr moo
Full Member
Posts: 102
Joined: Tue Sep 11, 2018 9:50 am
Has thanked: 16 times
Been thanked: 4 times

Re: Wet rotor arm?

Post by mr moo » Sun Nov 08, 2026 10:26 am

There is indeed a seal that goes inbetween the cap and dizzy body. Mine would splutter and fart every time we had heavy rain and going through large puddles.
Bottom of the seal had rotted leaving the top visible! Spare seal, spray with electrical contact cleaner, cured the issue

Post Reply

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 137 guests