My father was helping me do voltage checks on the 142S that I haven't been able to get running for months. He commented that the distributor cap sometimes cracked causing starting problems. I replied that I had already examined the relatively new cap, but handed it to him for inspection anyway. Somewhat embarrassingly for me, he quickly discovered a faint hairline crack running up the side. However, my embarrassment was most definitely outweighed by relief at finally seeing a definitive defective part. I swapped out the dizzy cap and put in new NGK plugs yesterday. The engine fired right up and ran smoother than it has in 10 years!

Many thanks are in order to all the Brickboard members who patiently helped me diagnose my no-start problem. I feel certain that inspecting, repairing, and cleaning some other parts based on your suggestions will save me headaches down the road. Also, you helped me learn how to set and tune the ignition the RIGHT way which I'm sure helps explain that smooth running engine. Now it's just a matter taking care of a few small parts and the car will be roadworthy once again.

Thanks very much!