Hi, I'm new to this site. Wondering if anyone can help me out with some issues I'm having. I have a 68 cutlass supreme , 350 with a 650 holly. Car was idling in the driveway the other day, and just died out. Turned the key, and nothing. No lights, horn, anything. i opened the hood, checked the battery, 12.44 volts, so nothing wrong there. I went over to the ignition coil, and noticed that the metal vacuum line that passes near it, came in contact with both terminals of the coil and caused a short. Coil is now dead, positive lead wire melted about 6 inches away from the coil, and melted the insulation on the wire next to it. My question is, what do I do to fix this problem besides replacing the coil and damaged wire? The car has a msd billet distributor, and a blaster 2 coil installed by the previous owner. I can't find an ignition control module, which I thought was needed with that distributor. I don't understand why when the coil shorted out, that the lights and other accessories stopped working as well, even thought the battery is fully charged. Is there something else that could be damaged as well. I purchased a new coil and some wire to replaced the damaged ones. The rest of the wiring harness seems to be ok, although it's a speghitti of a mess and nothing is connected to the fire wall or where it should be. Will be getting a new harness, but want to get her running again so it's easier to get her to and from the body shop. Thanks in advance to anyone who can lend a hand, much appreciated.

 

Sounds like you burned your fusible link.

Check you Chassis Service Manual for its exact location in your year and model.

Photos of the setup and the situation would help, though.

I'm not familiar with the various aftermarket systems, so can't comment on that.

Welcome to ClassicOlds.

- Eric

 

Thanks Eric, I'll check the book. I'll post a couple of pics later when I get a chance.

 

In my album, I have a nice and clear color wiring chart for 68's. Your fusable link is by the horn relay.

Bill

 

Thanks Bill, right where you said it was.
Just replaced it, she fires right up now!

 

Anytime, Eric hit the nail right on the head as usual. Glad everything worked out smooth on the first try.

Bill

 

Thanks, Bill, and you're welcome Jaybird. I try to help when I can.

- Eric