The "cough" part I believe is a symptom of a magnetic pickup coil having been wired with reversed polarity. Something about the leading edge vs. falling edge of the signal triggering the electronics... where the pickup creates the wrong trigger but the removal of the start circuit voltage therefore creates the proper trigger. Have never taken time to think it through or verify it on a scope. I've heard of this complaint applying to standard Chrysler Electronic systems, but don't know if it applies to the LeanBurn system.

Not sure how this theory reconciles with "spark while cranking", unless perhaps a backwards pickup coil produces a very weak spark that you can detect in mid-air but is insufficient when under the pressure of a cylinder?

- Erik

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Lots of early Valiants and Barracudas have crossed my path.
Also a handful of other toys for variety now and then.