2.1 dj blowing ignition module

[stevealex]

Hi All

I'm having problems with failing ignition modules (the amplifier or TCI as they are called) on a 2.1 dj. I am now on my third failed unit, so am figuring something must be blowing them. Before I try and track down any feeds to it that appear to be wrong, I wondered if anyone else had experienced a similar problem or knew of a know fault that causes this symptom.

Many Thanks

Steve

[Aidan]

they do seem to need to be well earthed via one of the mounting screws and typically the tip of the screw being in the wheel arch it rusts and the panel rusts so earth becomes weak

[Mocki]

whs!

[bigherb]

The only thing that really damages the amplifier (unless you have a habit of connecting the battery the wrong way round with the ignition switched on) is the HT spark jumping from the coil tower to the low tension wires on the coil. Check coil top is clean and there are no cracks or black tracking marks in the tower insulation and the HT lead seal is a good fit.

[tobydog]

Thermal paste used?

[bigherb]

Thermal paste used?

Good point and also too much thermal paste used only a thin smear is needed. Not needed if the heat sink is integral with the amplifier.

[stevealex]

Hi Guys

Thanks for the responses. The batteries have not been on the wrong way so definitely not been shorted out. I can't see the HT causing problems as I checked them out when first diagnosing the failed module. I've used thermal paste but to be honest I can't see heat being an issue as the engine hadn't been run for anything like a long period. I shall clean up or possibly re drill the mounts as a lack of earth through those is very possible, the mounting screws are pretty beef so hold it on even though they are a bit cruddy.

Thanks again for the responses, hopefully that will solve the problem as I really didn't fancy tracing and testing all the ignition system for shorts or surges.

Steve