Might have been on this list. A couple weeks ago, I mentioned my work van didn't start for a hoot. Someone suggested that might be a bad cap and rotor on the distributor. I wasn't sure, thinking it was more likely to be bad spark plug wires.
Anyhow, four or so people said cap and rotor, so I decided to change the cap and rotor. A friend suggested that I buy the good one with the brass contacts, (Napa Eschelin) not the cheap one with the aluminum contacts. I did that. Wonders, the cap and rotor went in (one screw was rotted, and had to grind it off). Now the van starts much easier.
I'm hoping that helped restore some of the fuel mileage, which is near to nothing now. Might also be able to go back to 87 octane instead of expensive premium.
Thank you for the wisdom. It's not home repair, but it sure was kind and helpful.