On Spectrum, remove distributor cap. Disconnect coil wire from cap and hold wire about 1/4" away from ground. Turn ignition on. Connect a flashlight (1.5 volt) battery between Red (positive) and White (negative) ignitor wires.
Ignitor is okay if sparks are generated between coil wire and ground when one flashlight battery lead is disconnected. DO NOT apply voltage to ignitor for more than 3 seconds.
If no spark occurs, ensure ignition coil is energized with ignition on. Perform resistance test on ignition coil. If both tests indicate coil is normal, ignitor module is at fault.
On Sprint, remove distributor cap and dust cover from module. Connect ohmmeter, test lamp, and 12-volt battery to module. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Testing Sprint Ignitor Module DO NOT reverse ohmmeter connections. Courtesy of General Motors
Set ohmmeter to x1 scale. Connect ohmmeter negative lead to Red wire terminal and positive lead to White wire terminal. Test lamp should light, indicating module is okay. If not, replace module.

NOTE: DO NOT reverse ohmmeter connections as module will be damaged.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

IGNITOR Module Test