Another Not Starting Problem

[Mike Wattam <MikeWattam@domain.elided>]

Hi Ross

Conventional points by and large are no problem on the Stag, easy to adjust
and long-lasting.  But they have a bad reputation because;

1)  they need to be adjusted accurately (preferably by dwell-angle)
2)  originally (1970-72) the plastic component was brittle and caused
mis-fire problems
3)  the base plates need accurate adjustment also to eliminate play
4)  a continuing problem, the contacts tend to wear out the distributor
spindle bushes (c100k life) leading to poor idle

Among their many advantages are;

you can see exactly what is - or is not - happening
they are not heat sensitive
maintenance and replacement costs are minimal
never interfere with tachometer operation

I would certainly recommend anybody converting to electronic ignition, to
keep ther old set-up in case of problem diagnosis

As regards spark strength, neither has an advantage.  The voltage at the
gap increases ONLY to the point of achieving a spark and this is well below
the design capacity of both types of ignition system.  The some advertisers
remarks I have seen about only electronic ignition giving a good fat spark
are not true in practice.

IMHO - Mike Wattam
Chairman - Triumph Stag Register