UPDATE- Ignition Solved! If you are working by yourself, how can you check the ignition?, Checking for spark.... Options

[billh1963]

I don't have any helpers this weekend and want to check for spark at the spark plugs (or at least spark from the coil). I don't have a remote starter so what options do I have for testing (seeing) the spark?

Probably a simple problem but I'm at a loss.....

UPDATE 7-26: The cause of my problem was a shorted out tachometer! Once the tachometer was unplugged, I had ignition. A replacement tach was put in and the car runs fine. I would have never thought of that.....

[stugray]

you can also:

pull plug wire, hook to extra spark plug & lay plug on engine case.
insert small piece of paper in the plug gap.
crank engine.

if you can find a hole in the paper, then you have confirmation of spark.
if you do not see one, that is NOT definitive evidence of NO-spark.

(positive test only).

DISCLAIMER: dont try this with fuel leaks..... (or any open spark tests for that matter ;-)

Stu