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The first thing that comes to mind is there is an issue with the pick up coil in the distributor. If it fails, you will lose spark. Here are the directions for testing it. Do this and let me know what you find. Also, the attached pictures correlate with the directions. Please keep in mind, these directions are for different designs. I'm not sure which you have, so note the directions where they indicate the different styles. For example, you may have an internal or external distributor.
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1986 Toyota Corolla Sedan FWD L4-1587cc 1.6L SOHC (4A-C)
Pick-Up Coil Test
Vehicle Powertrain Management Ignition System Pick-Up Coil Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Exc. 7M-GTE Engine Pick-Up Coil Test
PICK-UP COIL TEST
Fig. 13 Checking pick-up coil resistance. Models w/external coil
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Fig. 14 Checking pick-up coil resistance. Models w/internal coil
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Fig. 15 Pick-up coil connector terminal identification.
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Fig. 16 Pick-up coil connector terminal identification.
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Fig. 17 Pick-up coil connector terminal identification.
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Fig. 18 Checking pick-up coil air gap (Typical)
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These ignition systems may use up to three pick-up coils.
1. On models with external coil, disconnect electrical connector(s) to distributor. On models with internal coil, remove distributor cap, rotor and dust shield, if equipped.
2. On all except 3S-FE, 3S-GE, 5M-GE and 7M-GE engines, measure resistance between pick-up coil terminals as shown in Figs. 13 and 14. On 4A-GE, 4A-GEL, 4A-GEC and 4A-GELC engines, two pick-up coil connectors are used. Measure resistance between the two sets of pick-up terminals separately.
3. On 5M-GE engines, measure resistance between white and yellow wire terminals and between white and red wire terminals in distributor connector, Fig. 15.
4. On 3S-GE and 7M-GE engines, measure resistance between terminals G1 and G- , G2 and G- and Ne and G- , Fig. 16.
5. On 3S-FE engines, measure resistance between G and G- terminals, then the Ne and G- terminals, Fig. 17.
6. Pickup coil resistances should be 130-190 ohms on 3A-C engines, or 140-180 ohms on all other engines.
7. If resistance is not within specifications, pick-up coil, distributor housing or distributor should be replaced.
8. Rotate crankshaft as necessary to align one tooth or reluctor with pick-up pole piece(s), Fig. 18, and ensure that air gap is .008-.016 inch. Use non-magnetic feeler gauge when checking air gap. Engines may use one, two or three pick-up coils. Check air gap for all coils as outlined.
9. If pick-up coil air gap is incorrect, adjust as necessary. On some models, pick-up coils are not adjustable. If air gap is incorrect, the distributor or distributor housing must be replaced.
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Here are a few links you may find helpful:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring
Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.
Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, December 26th, 2020 AT 2:21 PM
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