i'm told i need a new or repairs to the pcm and test the relay, it is a 1974 6cyl 250, won't start any thoughts , am I being told something true or am I being taken...?
PCM stands for powertrain control module(computer) that you you won't have... Yes they are generally powered by a relay which is also non existent in a '74 Maverick... The original ignition system used points, is that what's still in it?? Possibly it's been converted to some type electronic ign???
I was told that the points exist under the distributor cap and it is original equipment setup I attached a photo, bottom of pic is the distributor without cap....
i'm told i need a new or repairs to the pcm and test the relay, it is a 1974 6cyl 250, won't start any thoughts , am I being told something true or am I being taken...?
As Krazy Comet has told you and the pictures confirm it you have points in your car. You may be in need of a new set of points and condenser or just have the gap on your points set or maybe the problem is not in the points at all many things can keep a car from starting perhaps a little more information about what it is doing. I notice that you have a 74 Maverick they were the only year that had a seatbelt interlock switch built in to keep car from starting with out seat belts connected, is there a box under the hood with a red button on it, if so press the button and get in the car and fasten seat belt and try to start car. If you want to persue the points I suggest you look up a you tube video of how to do these things as it is easier to watch than explaining it
Thanks for your thoughts , I will check what you suggest , are the points and condenser readily available ?
Well we don't know the complete story but sure sounds like you're going to need a large tube of personal lubricant...
Just for future reference...If the Shop or mechanic is telling you your 74 mav has a "PCM " issue...Find another shop/mechanic...Don't go back there...
Agree! My question is: When you turn the key to start does the engine turn over? If it does pull a spark plug wire and check for spark. No spark, you need points, condenser, or maybe a coil. If it doesn't turn over check started relay and starter.
If this has been setting for sometime points usually develop a "crust" that won't allow them to complete the circuit when closed... A points file works wonders & a metal fingernail file works in a pinch... Unless it's blown out with compressed air afterwards sandpaper and emery board type filing isn't recommended but can work in a pinch...
Or if you suspect the points to be bad, and have no affinity to adjusting them every few thousand miles, you might consider a Pertronix kit. Easy to install and does not need to be adjusted once it is initially set-up. They are obviously more expensive than points, but worth the expense IMHO.
