Removing TFI Module/Ignition Control Module

[bbbc3]

I have an 85 2.8L Ranger. The TFI Module is on the back end of the distributor right up against the firewall. Do I have to completely remove the entire distribuotr to replace the TFI Module or and I rotate the distributor enough to remove it in place?

And I'm guessing that this is the cause my truck suddenly died while I was driving and would not start again. No even when spraying the carb with starter fluid.

Thanks for any help!

BBB

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

I would try to remove the TFI module as it sits, they make a tool to remove the tiny screws/bolts that is not overly expensive. Sometimes they're torx screws and sometimes they're hex head, 7/32, IIRC. Sometimes you can get a 1/4" drive ratchet to fit it, sometimes the socket is too big to fit in the hole though. I know my Duralast set, the deep socket will fit. I broke them free with that and used the tool to unscrew them out. It's a pain. Once the two screws/bolts are out, you have to pull the TFI down away from the distributor cap to disengage the three prongs that stick up.

IIRC, it's difficult to get the distributor out of a stock truck without pulling the engine.

Rotating the distributor (also difficult because you have to reach the hold-down bolt and loosen it) messes up your timing, which means you'll have to get it close to properly set before trying to start it, then you'll have to go through the process of resetting the timing.

On another note... Have you checked for spark? Does the engine turn over quickly or is it slow to turn over? Does it try to fire when you use the starter fluid but not fully start?

 

[bbbc3]

It turns over fine. It does not seem to be getting a spark. I looked down the carb and pressed the throttle and it is spraying gas fine. I put a new ignition coil on and still no fire to the engine. It just turns over and over.

I honestly do not know how to get the TFI module off when it is that close to the firewall.?

 

[adsm08]

As stated there is a tool that will fit in there with enough room to work. Go to Advance as ask for a "Ford ignition module tool". They are like $5.

The TFI will slide straight down once the screws are removed.

 

[bbbc3]

I went to autozone and picked up a new TFI module (ignition control module) and the special tool to remove the module.
The tool make it really simple to remove the old and install the new! The new module fixed my problem! Thanks for the help guys!

Here is a picture of the tool.

BBB


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[adsm08]

Yup, that's the tool. I keep it and a few spare TFIs in my center console with some zinc oxide butt paste.