How can i test the distributor on my 96 F150 to ensure that it is operable and working properly?

 

I usually start the truck.

 

Lmao

 

On a serious note...

 

got a spark tester? hook up spark tester to the output of the distributor spark tower . If you worry about voltage leaking check for carbon tracking inside. the points should not be pitted chard or damaged. the rotor button should also be checked. for visual signs of damage. if you are worried about timing check for play in the distributor bushings my trying to press distributor side to side. make sure the locking plate is secure so shaft cannot move. um thats most of it . If you want to check ignition module or advance you can do that also just ask me and I will give detail.

 

I should just be able to unhook the cable that goes from the cap to the ignition coil and connect a spark plug and lay it on the block correct? Or do i need to unhook it from the coil and leave it connected to the cap?

 

if you pull the wire from coil to distributor you're testing the coil not the distributor. Power goes from Battery to coil to distributor to plug. the distributor is secondary system where coil is primary. I would check at a sparkplug. at end of system them at output of distributor (where the plug wire connects. Next check is power going in (which is checking the coil) if you have power going in and none coming out its distributor problem.

 

Alright, so i got spark at the plug coming from the cap, and i got spark coming directly out of coil as well. Do you think the timing could just be off or there is too much give in the movement of the distributor?

 

thats possible. do you have a timing light? there really shouldnt be any movement in distributor itself. it should clamp securely in place. if it rotates of pushes side to side you could have worn bushings, bearings, gear or other problems. I would check timing with light. I do not know stock timing off top of head but I am sure it can be located.

 

no i dont have a timing light. ill check it this week hopefully its nothing too bad. i havent been able to get it to start for about 2 weeks