checking ignition coil

[JCFERG]

What is the correct way to check an ignition coil? I have a volt meter but not sure which wires to connect to. <br />Thanks

 

[Boomyal]

Re: checking ignition coil

Quick and simple way, make sure you have 12 v to the positive side of the coil, pull the secondary lead off of the distrib cap, hold it 3/8 inch from a ground and crank the motor. Should get a good healthy arc across the gap<br /><br />If you don't, check the voltage to the coil as you are cranking it. (yeah, I know. Not enough hands). Should be minimum 8 volts. If you have sufficient voltage but no arc, I'd suspect the coil is bad.<br /><br />Someone else may have the correct technical way to check the coil but the above should work.

 

[Bondo]

Re: checking ignition coil

Well, You Could use the Arkansas Method......<br /><br />Check to see if there's Power at the (+)side of the coil.....<br />Now, Have cousin Billy-Bob grab ahold of the High-Tension Lead, while leaning on the engine.....<br />Ground out the (-)side of the coil......<br />If Billy-Bob is Still leaning on the motor babbling to you, <br />The coil is Bad......<br />If Billy-Bob is up in the tree above the boat,in a state of High Anxiety, <br />The coil is Just Fine......

 

[merc 140 pontoon]

Re: checking ignition coil

More likely that Billy-Bob will end up in the White House for 8 years. Or maybe Hilly-Bob.