TESTING

Primary Resistance

See Figures 1, 2 and 3

This test requires the use of an ohmmeter. When using this tool, make sure the scale is set properly for the range of resistance you expect to encounter during the test. Always perform these tests with the ignition OFF.

Lable and disconnect the spark plug wire leading to the ignition coil. On all models except the 4A-GE engine, remove the distributor cap, rotor and dust cover. If equipped, disconnect the distributor wiring.

Using an ohmmeter, check the resistance between the positive (+) and the negative (-) terminals on the coil. The resistance COLD should be:

1988-91 4A-GE engine: 0.4-0.5 ohms

1988-89 4A-F engine: 1.3-1.5 ohms

1988-92 4A-FE engine: 1.25-1.56 ohms

1992-95 4A-FE engine: 1.11-1.75 ohms

1996-97 4A-FE engine: 0.36-0.55 ohms

1993-94 7A-FE engine: 1.11-1.75 ohms

1995-97 7A-FE engine: 0.36-0.55 ohms

If the resistance is not within specification, the coil will require replacement.

Fig. Fig. 1: Testing coil primary resistance-4A-GE engine

Fig. Fig. 2: Testing coil primary resistance-1988-92 4A-FE engine

Fig. Fig. 3: Testing coil primary resistance-1996-97 4A-FE and 7A-FE engines

Secondary Resistance

See Figures 4, 5 and 6

Lable and disconnect the spark plug wire leading to the ignition coil. On all models except 4A-GE engines, remove the distributor cap, rotor and dust cover. If equipped, disconnect the distributor wiring.

Using an ohmmeter, check the resistance between the positive terminal (+) and the coil wire terminal. The resistance COLD should be:

1988-91 4A-GE engine: 10.2-13.8 kilohms

1988-89 4A-F engine: 10.2-13.8 kilohms

1990-92 4A-FE engine: 10.4-14.0 kilohms

1992-95 4A-FE engine: 9.0-15.7 kilohms

1995-97 4A-FE engine: 9.0-15.4 kilohms

1993-94 7A-FE engine: 9.0-15.7 kilohms

1995-97 7A-FE engine: 9.0-15.4 kilohms

If the resistance is not within specification, the coil will require replacement.

Install all components removed and attach the distributor wire if disconnected.

Fig. Fig. 4: Testing coil secondary resistance-4A-GE engine

Fig. Fig. 5: Testing coil secondary resistance-1988-92 4A-FE engine

Fig. Fig. 6: Testing coil secondary resistance-1996-97 4A-FE and 7A-FE engines

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

4A-GE Engine

Make certain the ignition is OFF and the key is removed. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

Disconnect the high tension wire or coil wire (running between the coil and the distributor) from the coil.

Disconnect the low tension wires from the coil.

Loosen the coil bracket and remove the coil.

To install:

Install the new coil and securely tighten the bracket.

Attach the low tension wires first, then the coil wire. Reconnect the battery cable.

Reset any various digital equipment such as radio memory and the clock if necessary.

Except 4A-GE Engine

See Figures 7 through 22

The internal coil found within the distributor on the 4A-F, 4A-FE and 7A-FE engines can be changed without removing the distributor (a selection of various short screwdrivers may be required for access to the screws) but it is recommended to remove the distributor and then replace the coil assembly.

Fig. Fig. 7: The ignition coil is located inside the distributor cap dust cover

Disconnect the negative battery cable.

Disconnect the distributor wiring.

Disconnect the vacuum advance hoses (if equipped).

Label and disconnect the plug wires from the distributor.

Remove the hold-down bolts and pull out the distributor.

Remove the distributor rotor with O-ring. Discard the O-ring.

Remove the dust cover over the distributor components and remove the dust cover over the ignition coil.

Note position and routing of all internal distributor assembly wiring.

Remove the nuts and disconnect the wiring from the ignition coil.

Remove the 4 screws and remove the ignition coil and gasket from the distributor.

Fig. Fig. 7: Disconnect the negative battery cable

Fig. Fig. 8: Separate the plug wires from the distributor cap

Fig. Fig. 9: Remove the distributor hold-down bolts

Fig. Fig. 10: Remove the distributor cap ...

Fig. Fig. 11: ... and rotor from the distributor

Fig. Fig. 12: Pull the dust cover off

Fig. Fig. 13: Remove the 2 nuts and disconnect the wires from the ignition coil terminals

Fig. Fig. 14: Remove the 4 screws retaining the coil to the distributor

Fig. Fig. 15: Remove the ignition coil from the distributor housing

Fig. Fig. 16: Connect the wires to the coil terminals with the 2 nuts as shown

Fig. Fig. 17: When connecting the wires to the coil, insert both properly into their grooves

Fig. Fig. 18: Install a new gasket to the housing when attaching the duct cover

To install:

Install the ignition coil, gasket, screws and secure its wiring. Again, watch the wiring positions.

Install a new gasket to the housing when attaching the dust cover.

Install the distributor rotor.

Set the No. 1 cylinder to TDC of the compression stroke. Turn the crankshaft clockwise, and position the slit of the intake camshaft as shown.

Apply a light coat of engine oil to the new O-ring and install it to the distributor housing. align the cutout portion of the coupling with the protrusion of the housing. Insert the distributor, aligning the center of the flange with that of the bolt hole on the cylinder head. Lightly tighten the 2 mounting bolts.

Fig. Fig. 19: Set the No. 1 cylinder to TDC

Fig. Fig. 20: Apply a light coat of oil to the O-ring and install it to the end of the distributor assembly

Fig. Fig. 21: Insert the distributor, aligning the center of the flange with the bolt hole on the cylinder head

Fig. Fig. 22: Lightly tighten the distributor mounting bolts

Attach the spark plug wires to the distributor cap.

Connect the wiring to the distributor. Connect the negative battery cable.

Warm up the engine to reach operating temperature and adjust the timing.

Reset any digital equipment such as radio memory and the clock if necessary.

Engine Electrical

TESTING

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION