Ignition System No Start Test

Prior to testing the ignition system, ensure battery is fully charged. Make a note of battery voltage to be used during testing procedures.
1. Remove the coil wire from distributor cap and hold end of wire about 1/4 inch from a good engine ground. Turn ignition On, then intermittently jump coil negative terminal to a good ground while observing coil wire.
2. The spark at the coil wire must be constant and bright blue. If spark is satisfactory, continue to intermittently jump coil negative terminal while slowly moving coil wire end away from ground. If arcing occurs at the coil tower, replace coil. If spark is weak or not constant or there is no spark, proceed to the Failure To Start Test.
3. If spark is satisfactory and no arcing occurs at coil tower, the ignition system is producing the necessary high secondary voltage. However, ensure this voltage is transmitted to the spark plugs by checking the distributor rotor, cap, spark plug wires, and spark plugs. If satisfactory, the ignition system is not faulty. It will be necessary to check the fuel system and engine mechanical components.