how do I check a coil
 

my engine won't start...I am getting fuel...

my battery was dead and is on a trickle charger...

My suspects are
battery
CDI
coil

I followed bentleys ignition testing steps

all the wiring i ok..they had me test the voltage pulse...

but gave no good procedures how to test the box and the coil directly...

I think I read you cannot test a box with a multimeter...but what about the coil??

thanks

MJ

i would like to know how to test a coil too...i have suspicions about mine. so here is a friendly bump.
I thought i wasnt getting spark one time...so I hooked up my timing light. Easy enough.
So then I thought i wasnt getting fuel...so I yanked the first injector, turned the key to get the fuel pump on, and slowly lifted the air sensor plate to get some gas flowing thru the injector.

Do a search of the 911 forum on keywords "test cdi coil" ...

a coil might give good readings at room temperature and be worthless at operating temp.

I would like to suggest a book to buy. It's probably a kindergarten text to someone with Warren's skills, but I've found it very useful. Published by SEARS, it's titled: "A simple and comprehensive guide to Multitesters and their use for electrical testing." Sears catalog number is 34 82303. Page 110 gives a multitester coil test...Whatever you do, DO NOT try to test the high voltage outlet with your multitester...all testing done with keys to the car off and in your pocket...

I may be wrong but I believe local auto parts stores will test them for you,but like stated above this is only in a cold condition,may be different when hot.

thanks for the suggestion on the book

I am moron when it comes to car electrical systems

thanks

MJ

Me too, MJ...I just keep trying to learn, but electrics scare the krap out of me...

If you think YOU'RE a moron, read my recent threads.:rolleyes:

Don't worry, Jim ... now you have some spares you needed for your toolkit, anyway! These days, on our cars, ignition system spares are one way to avoid having to be towed and paying for a $700 repair bill in some town you didn't want to stop in, and don't want to spend the night in!

Thanks, Warren. For a champion cheapskate, I feel unexpectedly good. Spare CD and matching coil, and NEW distributor.