How to make sure my distributor is working right?
 

i know this question comes up alot. i went through the threads and really didnt see anything. like i said before my engine is trying to start and i am not getting spark. i took out the first spark plugs / clyinder 1 and i laid the plug down plugged in the spark plug wire. turned the ignition and the plug didnt spark. so know what?

Re: How to make sure my distributor is working right?
 

First is there any redish brown dust in the dist. ? If so you have bad bearings in the dist. Test coil and igniter. Bad igniter is very common. You can test the wiring to the igniter. Take it to Autozone to test if the actuall ignitier is good or not.

Re: How to make sure my distributor is working right?
 

You turned the ignition on and it didnt spark? or you actually tried cranking the engine over and it had no spark? also besure to set the end of the spark plug down on the valve cover towards a ground so it can spark. Or put just hold it with your fingers and crank it over.. You'll definatly know if you have spark or not ;)

As mentioned above if there is any White, Brown, redish dust actually inside the distributor around the coil or ignitior your more than likly are having problems with those, I'd say its a 50/50 chance on either componet.

Re: How to make sure my distributor is working right?
 

engine cranked over but no spark. im gonna take it apart today.