It is excellent advice, but if they've worked out that there's fuel getting in (engine driven pump), and that there is a fault with the electrical system, I imagine that the engine been spinning like a good 'un for a fair while........
Just read the original post Phil....where does it say anything about fuel getting in or the engine been spinning?
You know what they say about assuming....
Arwyn
Agreed - just as assuming that they've not done all the proper start up procedures before trying to get her running.
One way to check a spark is to crank the engine over with a spare plug held against the block (they were even doing this on a lovely old Delahaye at Brooklands yesterday) and to check fuel by disconnecting the pipe from the carb and turning the engine over to see if it's pumping through (into a sutiable container obviously). I'm sure there are other ways, but those are some of the checks I'd do if an engine wasn't starting.
Just done exactly that while recommisioning my old GL1000 which wouldn't start - after soaking the bores ( I use ATF), static setting the timing, fitting new belts, checking valves gaps and turning the engine repeatedly to ensure everything was set up OK. Turned out I had a duff coil.....
However, all is moot and speculative - what we do know for sure is the OP is asking about coil/distributor issues.
