Ignition Coil: Testing and Inspection

INSPECTION

Checking For Spark:

SPARK TEST
1. Disconnect the coil wire from the distributor.
2. Hold it with insulated pliers 5 - 10 mm (0.20 - 0.40 in) from ground.
3. Crank the engine and verify that a strong blue spark is visible.

Checking Ignition Voltage:

4. If there is no spark, disconnect the connector from the ignition coil and check for voltage at the positive (+) terminal of the connector with the ignition switch in the ON position.

Voltage: Approximately 12 volts

5. If there is no voltage, check the main fuse, ignition switch, and wire harness.

Measuring Primary Resistence:

PRIMARY COIL WINDING
Use an ohmmeter and measure resistance of the primary coil winding. If not within specification, replace the coil.

Resistance: 0.81 - 0.99 Ohms (at 20°C [68°F])

Measuring Secondary Coil Resistence:

SECONDARY COIL WINDING
Use an ohmmeter and measure resistance of the secondary coil winding. if not within specification replace the coil.

Resistance: 10 - 16 K Ohms (at 20°C [68°F])

Measuring Case Insulation Resistence:

INSULATION OF CASE
Use a 500 volt megger tester to measure the insulation resistance between each terminal and the case.

Resistance: 10 M Ohms minimum