1980 911SC

Drove the car this afternoon. Ran fine. Stopped and re-started engine several times. This evening, didn't start. Am out of town. Have some tools with me. Need to fix it. Haven't had a chance to do any real trobleshooting, yet. But, seems similar to the times (3) my CDI unit failed. Unit still whistles, but doesn't seem as loud as before -- I can't hear it from inside the car. Can only hear it while standing near rear with engine lid open.

What are suggestions for most-efficient trobleshooting?

If it is ignition, I'm going to replace with MSD. Fed up with the Bosch CDI.

If I need ignition cap, rotor, etc., what is a good source near Pasadena, CA?

 

"If it is ignition, I'm going to replace with MSD. Fed up with the Bosch CDI."

The original Bosch units are very reliable. Most likely:

1. bad green pickup wire
2. using the unreliable silver coil
3. bad power source to the unit
4. bad cap or rotor
5. bad coil ground

The MSD is less reliable and stresses the ignition system more,
i.e. the cap & rotor, the ignition wires and plug connectors.
The MSD is a kulge setup for a 911, unless you're going to add a Chevy
350 engine later. Then the MSD will "fit" nicely.

 

Have you checked the fuel pump/fuse...??

On my '78 fuel pump surge currents over-heated the fuse spring clips to the point they didn't hold the fuse tightly.