Craftsman 161.210400 Owner's Manual page 21

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Turn the vehicle's Ignition Switch (key) to the "ON" or "RUN" position
only. Do not start the engine.
Read the analyzer's voltmeter. Normal readings should be as follows:
Breaker Point Systems: At or slightly below battery voltage (12 volts)
if the points are open. Approximately 6 to 8 volts if the points are
closed, "Jog" the engine quickly to close the points if they are open.
The meter reading will be significantly lower with the points closed
as shown above.
If the Voltmeter stays at or very close to battery volts (12 volts)
with the points closed, a problem exists in one or more of the
following areas:
Ignition coll primary open, Pigtail from negative (-) or Distributor
(Dist) side of co11 to distributor open, points defective, or open
ground within the Distributor.
If the Voltmeter stays at.zero (no reading), a problem exists in the
supply circuit to the ignltion Coil i.e. ballast resistor open (when
equipped), ignition switch or related wiring open.
Electronic Ignitions: At or slightly below Battery Voltage (12 volts)
If the voltage is not as specified, see the proper diagnostic procedures
relating to your vehicle ignition type as shown later in this manual.
Your vehicle service manual is also a valuable toot in diagnosing
Electronic Ignition problems.