'53 CJ3B with Go-Devil Western Michigan

[Jim-WMI]

I just acquired this 3B from a friend. It has been sitting for approximately 15 years in his barn. When he bought it, it came with an L-134 installed, but also with two F-head engines. The PO told him that one had "a bad head", but the other was in running condition. Since the barn's sliding doors are frozen shut and the F-134s are inaccessible in a remote part of the barn, I am messing with the Go-Devil in the meantime. It's been freed-up, but dealing with a "no spark" condition, now.

[56willys]

Welcome aboard!!

Give us some more info on that spark issue. After sitting 15 years, you'll probably have to change the coil and the points/condenser/cap etc. Depending on what the issue is, you may get away with running a file across the points and regap them, then clean the contacts on the cap/rotor.

Do you have power to the coil?

[bmorgil]

Awesome Jim! It sounds like you have a great project there. Spare engines are a good thing to have. The 3B came with the F head originally. Both engines work well in the Jeep for what it is. Having it under cover for 15 years probably saved a lot of things. Post some photo's we would love to see it. Keep us posted on your progress, great to have you aboard! It is stating to thaw around here, maybe you will get in the barn soon.

[gmwillys]

Welcome Jim-WMI,

We are glad to have you with us. Sounds like your no spark issue could be that the points need to be cleaned with a bit of emery cloth. As stated above, we would sure like to see some photos of your project!

[Jim-WMI]

Thanks for the kind welcome and troubleshooting suggestions. Late in the Fall, we got the engine spinning, and discovered the lack of spark. I have since installed a new (6V Blue Streak) coil, but have yet to look into the points, or test further. My next plan is to verify the grounds, and then look into points and plugs, and see where I am.

I have seen that others have had problems with the integrity of ignition parts - especially condensers - so Question: Without intending to insult the Forum's sponsor, which particular points and condensers (Make? Part Numbers?) have been found to be most reliable? Thanks again.

[bmorgil]

I would scour the earth for made in USA. Try here https://www.taroignition.com/ I think you will also have good success with Standard Ignition Products. They are usually made in USA or Mexico. I would try the China parts, if they were they only thing left on earth. The good thing about KW parts is no matter what if you don't like them, they will take them back without issue.

[56willys]

I would scour the earth for made in USA. Try here https://www.taroignition.com/ I think you will also have good success with Standard Ignition Products. They are usually made in USA or Mexico. I would try the China parts, if they were they only thing left on earth. The good thing about KW parts is no matter what if you don't like them, they will take them back without issue.

That's good info Bmorgil, I put a KW kit in my jeep. It's worked well, but I've only put less than 500 miles on it, so I can't say for longevity. I had been wondering what brands others used. USA made is always great to find. I hadn't heard of Taro before, I might have to get some parts from them.