Re: Various Engine Queries (was: [T3] Timing)

[Chris J Valade <redyouth@juno.com>]

Ben, Jim, Bob, et. al.,
        I changed my spark plugs today and two issues came up: 1) I am
missing the rubber boot for one spark plug cable, is this important? 
Should I replace it immediately?  2) All my SPs had carbon
deposits...does this indicate that the timing had been off?  Something
else?  How can I find out and fix it?
        Then I tested the coil by removing the thick cable from the dist
cap and opened and closed the points with a screwdriver, and I got a
spark, but it was mostly yellow/orangish but also with blue and purple. 
Is rhis normal?  I didn't have anyone to help me out, so I couldn't check
if I was able to get a spark when starting the car with the thick wire
from the coil grounded on to the engine, I will do this again tomorrow. 
Even though I got a spark, could the condensor be faulty, going, or
something?
        I tested the fuel pressure while turning the engine (i.e. not at
idle), and I got 34PSI...would it being this high prevent the engine from
starting (28 is where I want it right...for idle anyhow)?  Maybe by
flooding it before it gets a chance to even fire up?  Is the psi
different when starting the car than when in idle, and if so, is 34
within range?  Although, there is one problem with how I tested it: the
fuel pressure gauge I got is a screw on and there is nothing to screw it
on to on the T connection between the injectors, so it was spraying a
little, but this would give a lower reading, not a higher one right? 
Besides, what can I do to prevent that, and if it isn't possible, what
sort of fuel pressure gauge should I replace this one with?
        The oil is dripping from the trans close to the engine, but is
obviously engine oil...any idea where it could be coming from?
        Given that I've got a '71 dual carb case, what year should I be
buying parts for my engine for?  I've been buying 70 parts...could this
be a problem?
        I plan to buy myself a compression gauge and do a compression
check as soon as possible, I will of course post the results.  I also
plan to buy a new condensor, and if it turns out the old one is in
working condition, then I'll have an extra one for when it does fail (I
had planned to buy an extra one anyhow, and didn't since they didn't have
one in stock).  Plus, I will test the side of the coil with the green
wire and see what results I get.

Sincerely,
Christopher J. Valade

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