Digi. Starting Problem

[oakgreener]

Hi All
I have an intermittent starting problem with my 91 8v digi. and I'm hoping someone may have had a similar problem to give me clues.
Today it was stopped for about 10 mins, and when I tried to start it it was as dead as a dodo.
I checked for loose wires and leads. All looked OK.
I held a plug against the head while it was turned over, but there was no sign of a spark, so I thought duff coil, hall sender or some electrical problem. I called the AA and sat back.
After about 20 mins I thought I'd give it another go. Of course, you can guess, it started and ran perfectly.
So any pointers would be much appreciated as it's going to be bl@@dy hard to nail the problem while it's running well.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
Dave
 

[Loynes]

Has it got an imobiliser?

[oakgreener]

Yes it has. It's got the old electronic key in the dash jobby which, I believe, just disables the starter motor. The engine does turn over. But it could be a thought.
I will give that some investigation, and in the meantime I will make up a short lead to directly feed the coil and, if and when it happens again, I'll be ready for it.
Thanks for your thoughts.
Dave

[Mr Blue]

Replace that rotor arm and dizzy if you havn't already

[Wayne]

Could be an immob issue.

[oakgreener]

After spending 2 hours trawling these columns I'm thinking ignition switch. A lot of you guys have had similar problems.
I've had a look at removing the little bugger and it looks a sh!t of a job. So I'll get a switch first and then attempt to replace the old one. Thanks to RJ for his directions for replacement. Is it really that easy to remove the steering column? It don't sound so.
I'll keep you posted. Wish me luck.