So awhile back I tried to jump start my 1982 280zx turbo. Foolishly I swapped the posts on the battery popping a fusible link which I replaced. I have also replace spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, rotor, and ignition coil. But I am still left with no spark. I feel like a huge doofus because if I had swapped the posts the car would be fine. Also I did get a new battery but it has lost charge because it has been sitting but I can jump start it without a problem using the correct posts this time to try and start the car but I am still left with no spark. I do know that a possible problem is the ECU. is there a way to test that and anything else going forward? Because all other possible solutions going forward I know can get costly quick. So I am trying to avoid buying unnecessary parts. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Did you check all of your fusible links with a meter?

My 280z has a fuse in one of the wires coming off the battery, could be that? here's some tings to look at...http://atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/electricalconnections/index.html

It's called an EFI power connector in these pictures.

The OP has a 280ZX. The fusible links are grouped together without a stray fusible link like the 280Z.

Well now I'm ashamed! :stupid:

Sorry for the lengthly non response. I had a problem with my computer and couldn't log on and respond. I am going to try and get to testing the links this weekend. As a non mechanical/electrical person what do I need to look for when using the voltage meter? I have one I just don't know how to use it completely. And just incase what do I need to check next?

Edited November 14, 201311 yr by DstrbdSuperman

Sorry for the lengthly non response. I had a problem with my computer and couldn't log on and respond. I am going to try and get to testing the links this weekend. As a non mechanical/electrical person what do I need to look for when using the voltage meter? I have one I just don't know how to use it completely. And just incase what do I need to check next?

If you have a volt/ohm meter, simply pull the fusible links from the box located on the passenger wheel well. BE SURE TO DISCONNECT BATTERY FIRST! Put your meter on "ohms" and test from end to end. If you have continuity replace then go to next one. That the easiest way. Be sure to change meter to DC voltage if you decide to test it "hot". Oh, be careful to pull "low" on the wire...you don't want it to "pull out" of the connector. It's not a big deal to replace, but it's just something you have to bother with...

Take your time testing and think of electricity making loops, the ground on the car is just the path back to the car, and take your time and you can find any problems with electrical. THis is simple advice.

Are you getting power to cab lights and ignition?

The lights on the inside do come on(with proper jumpstarting). The there is power getting to the ignition coil. but no spark is leaving the coil. A separate and unrelated issue is that the fuel pump needs to be replaced due to the fact that electricity connection is broke. I am working I tracking that down as well as trying to solve the no spark issue. I will be checking the links in a little bit and will post the out come in a few hours. Thanks for the help.

Two things if power is going into the coil and not out check the baluster, you may have blown the balister and/or the coil. I know the early 300ZX had a fusible link to the fuel pump I'd check for that first for the fuel problem. At the nearest connector to fuel pump with the ignition on see if you are getting power.

ok so all of the fusible links were fine. but here is some thing weird. but it is better show in the pictures below.

The connection for the power to the fuel pump is broken at the fuel pump. So I have the figured out for the moment. the above pictures show the fusible link cover with the diagram of how the links should be placed. the second photo shows the link in place. The third photo shows the middle link that is suppose to three connections but it missing one. and when I took the link out the connector didn't have a third prong. So is it supposed to be that way? And what is the next step? Also what is a baluster? Where is located? And how do I check to see if it is bad?

Edited November 16, 201311 yr by DstrbdSuperman

"when I took the link out the connector didn't have a third prong. So is it supposed to be that way?" Yes my 84 200SX was wired with the 3rd wire because mine had factory fog-lamps.

"And what is the next step?" Fix the know bad connection you found at the fuel pump.

Also what is a baluster? IT is a part connected to the coil it is made of ceramic with a coiled wire inside, if the wire is broke it's bad. Some the ceramic and wire are exposed others are in a cad color box. Exact location in the engine bay on 280ZX I can't remember.

FYI crossing power like you did can create surges and ruin coils so if you have a spare like I always have around I'd recommend attaching that for now.