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Isuzu Trooper (1st Generation): Ignition Coil Replacement

On a 1989 first-generation Isuzu Trooper, the ignition coil is part of the breakerless distributor-based ignition system. Replace it if there is no spark or the engine misfires. The procedure is simple: two mounting points, two power terminals and one high-voltage wire.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 20-30 minutes Steps: 10 Tools: 10-12 mm socket or box wrench, multimeter (for testing)

Part

  • 🔩 ignition coil (aftermarket options: NGK, Accel, Carquest)
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Step by step

10 steps
  1. Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery.
  2. Label the high-voltage wire running from the coil to the distributor (the thick center wire).
  3. Disconnect the coil power connector (two terminals: positive and negative).
  4. Disconnect the high-voltage wire from the coil's center terminal.
  5. Remove the two mounting screws or bolts. The coil is usually mounted on a bracket near the distributor or on the valve cover.
  6. Remove the old coil.
  7. Install the new coil and tighten the fasteners to 20-27 N·m (15-20 lb-ft). This is an approximate value; check the manufacturer's service manual for the exact specification.
  8. Reconnect the power connector, observing polarity: positive to positive, negative to negative.
  9. Connect the high-voltage wire to the coil's center terminal.
  10. Reconnect the negative battery terminal, start the engine and check that it runs properly.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Before installing the new coil, you can test the old one with a multimeter. The primary winding resistance (between the positive and negative terminals) should be 1.1-1.5 ohms. If the reading differs significantly or the circuit is open, the coil is faulty. Do not mix up the positive and negative terminals when connecting the coil, as this will damage it.