There isn't much to test, does it have power and a good ground. Beyond that they either work or don't.
This video covers a lot of the issues with the duraspark system. There are multiple others as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RylhE4_HSPU Might be easier than following written words, especially coupled with the wiring diagrams.
Also you mentioned that turning the key does nothing, do you have power to the gauges and radio when you turn it to on? Then it does nothing when you turn it to start correct? Or do you get nothing? You said it was running ok a year ago but now doesn't so something changed. The common things are corrosion from setting, go over the battery cables and every plug and connection you can find and clean them especially grounds. Then go to the coil, do you have 6 or12 volts at the coil with the key on? How about when in start? If not then the problem isn't in the ignition system but in the wiring of the truck. What items work in the vehicle? Wipers? Lights? Radio? Gauges? Go to the fuse box with a simple test light and check all of the fuses with the light with the key off then on.
Dec 15, 2025 at 7:13 AM