engine turns over, sparks from distributor

[initial-T]

car: 1993 corolla dx 1.6

my friend's car is turning over and at night we can see volts jumping around from the distributor.

do we need a new distributor? and if so, whats labor usually like or is there a guide to replacing it?

[thisxstyle]

I can't really give a decent response due to lack of information here...

The way a distributor works is it spins a rotor, which as it it spins makes contact to each of the points in the dist. cap therefor sparking each plug at the right time. You shouldn't be able to see this unless you have a clear cap. If it's cracked, etc. It needs to be replaced.

The labor on a distributor is simple, it's usually 3 or 4 bolts and it pulls out, just make sure you make your timing marks and turn the rotor to about the same area to minimize problems.

[diver9000]

Do this: whether you need a new distro or not you will still need a new cap. So....put on a new cap and button and see if you still see sparks. If not you will know that was the problem and if so then change out your plug wires...

[ghost_ryder35]

so does the car turn on, and then your getting sparks from the dizzy?

[retiredat44]

your wires are old and shorting... r&r cap and wires

[diver9000]

Damn, that sounds like a good idea. I wonder where I heard that before? LOL

[ghost_ryder35]

Originally Posted by diver9000

Damn, that sounds like a good idea. I wonder where I heard that before? LOL

maybe right here

Originally Posted by diver9000

Do this: whether you need a new distro or not you will still need a new cap. So....put on a new cap and button and see if you still see sparks. If not you will know that was the problem and if so then change out your plug wires...

[diver9000]

Originally Posted by ghost_ryder35

maybe right here

Smart ass

[bonnie*]

I do agree with other community memebers.
Replace folowings...
1) Brand New Copper Spark Plugs 9it would be cheaper option). Fault caused to spark plugs by faulty spark plug wires or so called distributor will be rectified.
2) Replace Spark plug wires with brand new ones possibly with Denso make or excellent make aftermarket.

YOU MAY TRY IN-LINE SPARK PLUG TESTER TO TEST EACH CIRCUIT, THESE ARE AVAILABLE IN AFTER-MARKET FOR CHEAP UNDER $10/-

After carrying out above things , drive it for a while. If problem still persist, then u need to check distributor cap visually and distributor functionally.

DO NOT FORGET TO GIVE YOUR DETAILED FEED-BACK WHEN IT'S SOLVED!