How to Replace the Coil in a 1997 Chevrolet Truck
by Russell WoodThe coil on a 1997 Chevrolet truck is a part of the ignition system, and sends a spark to the distributor. If the coil on the engine goes out, then the ignition won't work properly and the truck won't run. To fix this issue, the coil needs to first be removed from the engine, and then a new one installed in its place. This should take around an hour to do.
Step 1
Open up the hood. Take off the air cleaner on the engine by removing the wingnut on the top and pulling the assembly off of the engine.
Step 2
Locate the ignition coil, which is on the passenger side of the engine, towards the distributor. Pull off the ignition coil wire using a twisting motion, and unplug the wiring to the coil. Unbolt the ignition coil bracket from the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket, then take it away from the engine.
Step 3
Remove the rivets holding the ignition coil on the bracket using the drill and metal drill bits. Take off the ignition coil and discard it. Bolt the replacement ignition coil to the bracket with the bolts in the kit and the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.
Step 4
Bolt the bracket onto the engine and reconnect the wiring to the coil. Push the coil wire onto the replacement coil until it makes a pop, indicating it's locked in place. Reinstall the air filter using the factory wingnut.
References
- "Chilton General Motors Full-Size Trucks 1988-98 Repair Manual"; Thomas A Mellon; 1996
Things You'll Need
- Replacement ignition coil kit
- 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
- Drill and metal drill bits
Writer Bio
Russell Wood is a writer and photographer who attended Arizona State University. He has been building custom cars and trucks since 1994, including several cover vehicles. In 2000 Wood started a career as a writer, and since then he has dedicated his business to writing and photographing cars and trucks, as well as helping people learn more about how vehicles work.
