95 Disco deep puddle, wouldn't start, now really won't start

[littleg]

Ok so I drove through deep puddles, and the engine quit after the third or fourth puddle.

So I waited and waited and then it would start, but ran very weekly, rough sort of like on 3 cylinders.

Was able to move it somewhat but then quit again. Towed home.

Was getting some spark (exhaust warm after cranking), fuel to cylinders, cranking fine. Fuel pump sounds like it works.

Replaced wires, distributor cap, plugs. Now getting only minimal spark (a few coughs), no start. Fuel is getting to cylinders (plug was wet with fuel when pulled).

What are my next steps? Also, hearing a metallic clunking sound down low on the car when cranking occasionally...when it tries to kick in.

Was previously getting rythmic ignition sounds i.e. after every half dozen or so cranks, would get some ignition. Now it's less so: after every 2 dozen cranks, get some ignition.

I'd appreciate some thoughts...thanks!

[littleg]

Update: that wasn't a metal clunking sound, that was backfire in the air intake when I kick down on the throttle...

[alibabu22]

hey,
same thing happened on my mini van. check your coil
good luck, Alistair

[littleg]

Ok thanx, will do. The backfiring in the intake manifold may suggest timing issues? Also, I notice that the translucent plastic cover on the distributor is cracked...would that cause any problems?

I'm gonna yank the plugs again, make sure they're firing (I think they are)...