🚗 Classic Fault — Toyota (1983–1987)
AE86 4A-GE distributor cap carbon tracking — misfire at high RPM
💰 Estimated Repair Cost
$20 – $65 USD
Parts and labour estimate
🔧 Tools Required
New distributor cap and rotor arm
📋 Overview
The distributor cap develops carbon tracks from high-voltage discharge causing ignition voltage to short to adjacent terminals especially above 6000 RPM.
🩺 Symptoms
Misfire above 6000 RPM. Power drops at high RPM. Engine runs fine at low speeds.
🔍 Possible Causes
Carbon track formation from moisture. Age of distributor cap. Worn rotor arm.
🛠️ Diagnosis Steps
Remove distributor cap and inspect interior surfaces for carbon tracks (thin dark lines between terminals).
✅ Most Confirmed Fix
Replace distributor cap and rotor arm as a pair. Check HT leads and plugs. Use NGK BKR6EK-11 plugs.
89% of users confirm this fix worked (34 reports)
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