1986 Bronco II 2.9L, 4WD, Automatic, Ignition Problem

[Bits4Bytes]

I bought this little Bronco II several years ago as a project. Body & Interior are in great shape.... but it runs terribly, it definately needs some tender loving care mechanically. I just recently started driving it, terrible gas mileage, no power, poor acceleration... definitely needs a rebuild. Last week it wouldn't start... no spark, the distributor was shot. No big deal, fortunately, I work for Napa. I replaced the distributor, no problem. Got lucky and it went right in the first try. However, when I tried to set the timing I ran into a bit of a problem. The "Spout Connector" has no effect on the timing. With or with the spout connector plugged in the timing remains the same. I tried jumping the connector, the same thing... the spout connector does not affect the timing at all. There is 6.4 - 7.8 volts at the hot side of the spout connection, the voltage increases slightly when I increase the rpm, but the timing does not advance or change with or without the spout connector plugged in, or when I increase the engine RPM. Anyone have any ideas on how or what I should do to correct this problem? I have all the original Ford Shop & emissions manuals, a Chitons and Haynes manual also... I'm an experienced mechanic, 30+ years working in the boating industry as a mechanic, 10+ years in the automotive parts business (3 years in a Ford Parts Dept). I'm stumped,

HELP?!?!?!?

 

[19Walt93]

I'd check the spout wires for continuity, one runs to the processor/pcm and the other to the tfi connector. If there's a break in the wire anywhere you'll have fixed advance and no power.

 

[Bits4Bytes]

Thanks for the reply. I'll check it out in the morning. I'm replacing the PCM wiring connector tomorrow. The engine wiring and connectors are brittle and loose so it could easily be part of the problem