<VV> Engine misfire - coincidence or ...?

[Guus de Haan]

Hi,

Some of you may remember the problems I've had with the Carter YH on my 
Corsa Turbo. Well that is sorted out but because I can now actually 
drive the car some new problems pop up. The engine is very hesitant 
under (very ligt) load, running rough while driving and  every now and 
then giving a big backfire. Running idle is pretty good and just 
revving up is no problem.

I've connected my timing light to see how the timing is set and strange 
enough I can't get a proper reading! The light flashes intermittent and 
the mark is nowhere to be seen. I've tried turning the distributor 
while the engine was running and although the engine keeps on running 
the mark is not to be seen. I've checked for the mark and it is there, 
also seems to be in the right position compared to wire 1 on the 
distributor. The engine is running on an Ignitor module now 7 years old 
with maybe 1500 miles on it. Another thing is I also had two fan belts 
flip lately which I've never had before. The car has a Dale harmonic 
balancer, also about 7 years old and 2000 miles on it.

So what could cause my problems?

- Bad Ignitor?
- Bad harmonic balancer?
- Bad timing light?

I'm thinking about installing some points but is there a way to test 
the balancer and timing light as well?

Any other suggestions concerning the misfire?

Thanks!

Guus de Haan
'65 Corsa Turbocharged