Ignition Coil

TESTING

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Disconnect the plug wire from the ignition coil. A clip is on the tip of the wire, release the clip and pull to separate.
3. Clean and inspect for the following on the coil:
   • Cracks or damages
   • Check the terminals for carbon tracks
   • Check the coil wire for holes or carbon deposits and corrosion
4. Using an ohmmeter, check the primary resistance between the positive and negative terminals. Resistance should be as follows when cold:
   • 1991 — 0.4–0.5 ohms.
   • 1992 — 0.3–0.6 ohms
   • 1993–97 — 0.36–0.55 ohms

     Fig. 1: Using an ohmmeter to test the primary resistance of the positive and negative terminals on the ignition coil

5. If the resistance is not within specifications, replace the coil.
6. To check the secondary resistance, measure the resistance between the positive terminal of the coil and the terminal. Resistance should be within the following when cold:
   • 1991 — 10–14 kilohms.
   • 1992–93 — 9–15 kilohms
   • 1994–97 — 9.0–15.4 kilohms

     Fig. 2: Secondary resistance is check by testing the high-tension terminal and positive leads

7. If the resistance is not within specifications, replace the coil.
8. Connect the negative battery cable and reset any digital equipment such as the radio.