Code 18 No Start

[Flygonjim]

Been having some issues with my BII where it’d sort of stall out for a second a stop lights and such. Weird rough idles and fluctuation RPM. Read around on here all about the notorious TFI/ignition module. Symptoms on related threads seemed to exactly describe what was going on with me. I pulled a code 18 (memory) which all but confirmed my suspicions, replaced all the spark plugs ran better for a few hours but symptoms came back. Engine would not start the next morning. Replaced the TFI one day after that but still the thing won’t start.

Any ideas? I Tested the ignition coil with key ON and read 11.90v which is slightly lower than the 12.0v I’ve seen mentioned on some other threads. Is that enough to prevent spark? Or maybe something’s up with the distributor? Forgot to mention battery is all good too no charge issues there. Appreciate any ideas or help.

 

[franklin2]

Do you take the SPOUT connector out when checking the timing? Have you ever forgotten to put it back in? Is the SPOUT connector in good shape? Sometimes they get corroded. Code 18 is all about the SPOUT connector and the signal that it sends from the computer to the TFI.

 

[Flygonjim]

Thank you sir Franklin for the response! I noticed that thing dangling around in no man’s land before but wasn’t certain what it was. Opened it and found the connectors to be in good shape but a little dirty. Sprayed some electronic cleaner in there wiped around, let it dry and reclosed. Seems to be running great now. Fingers crossed it stays that way. Can’t believe that made an impact. Appreciate the info!!