UKPOC forums

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.

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.

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